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In Chapter 29 (Vol II, Ch VI), Elizabeth visits Rosings and meets Lady Catherine de Bourgh for the first time - Edexcel - GCSE English Literature - Question 5 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 5
In Chapter 29 (Vol II, Ch VI), Elizabeth visits Rosings and meets Lady Catherine de Bourgh for the first time. When the ladies returned to the drawing room, there w... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In Chapter 29 (Vol II, Ch VI), Elizabeth visits Rosings and meets Lady Catherine de Bourgh for the first time - Edexcel - GCSE English Literature - Question 5 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
How does Austen present Lady Catherine in this extract?
Answer
In the extract, Jane Austen presents Lady Catherine de Bourgh as a domineering figure who enjoys expressing her strong opinions and controlling conversations. Her assertion of authority is evident as she talks without interruption and shares her decisive views on various topics. This reflects her dominant character and suggests she is unaccustomed to being challenged.
Austen employs adverbs like "familiar" and "minutely" to illustrate Lady Catherine's intrusive nature, as she pries into Charlotte's personal matters and domestic arrangements. Her advice on managing a small household emphasizes her belief in her superiority and prescriptive capabilities.
Moreover, the verb "instructed" indicates Lady Catherine's tendency to dictate how others should behave, revealing a lack of respect for personal autonomy. This domineering disposition also extends to her interactions with Elizabeth, where she engages in a series of probing inquiries. Through this character portrayal, Austen critiques social hierarchies and gender dynamics, illustrating how strong personalities can overshadow others in conversations.
Step 2
Who has strong views on opinions?
Answer
Several characters in 'Pride and Prejudice' possess strong opinions that shape their interactions:
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Mrs. Bennet's opinions about marriage: She is desperate for her daughters to secure advantageous marriages, showcasing her fixation on social status and financial stability.
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Elizabeth’s first opinions of Darcy: Initially prejudiced against Darcy, her impressions evolve as she learns more about his character.
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Caroline Bingley’s opinions of Elizabeth: Caroline expresses disdain for Elizabeth, motivated by her jealousy and desire to maintain social superiority.
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Mr. Collins's opinion of Lady Catherine: He reveres Lady Catherine and feels it necessary to echo her opinions, illustrating his sycophantic nature.
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Lady Catherine de Bourgh’s opinions: She holds overwhelming authority and demands respect for her views on matters of propriety and societal norms. Through these characters, Austen illustrates a spectrum of strong opinions that drive the narrative and highlight social commentary.