The Similarities of Jane Austen and Elizabeth Bennet

The Similarities of Jane Austen and Elizabeth Bennet by Elise Reardon

Both women were similar in personality • They were independent young women • Both believed in marrying for love • Both showed significant intelligence and wit for women their age

Similar Economic Situations • Struggling financially • Difficult to marry for love • Encouraged to marry for financial security

Each had a close sister Jane Austen was close to her sister Cassandra. In Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth is very close to her eldest sister Jane. • People believe the character Jane is a foil of Austen herself.

Their romances were alike Austen strongly disliked an aspiring lawyer named Tom Lefroy who she believed to be arrogant and self absorbed. Eventually, it was Tom Lefroy who won over Austen’s heart. In Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth initially dislikes the character of Mr. Darcy, finding him to be pretentious and cold. As the story progresses she becomes more infatuated with Darcy and it is him who she ultimately gives her heart to.

Each had an unwanted lover Jane was pursued by Mr. Wisley who desired her hand in marriage. Elizabeth undergoes a similar situation with her cousin Mr. Collins.

Boisterous mothers • • Gossips Find a great amount of value in money Obsessed with finding their daughters a husband Can lack social graces

Uneasy Relationships Both underwent hostility from highly regarded, pompous women. Jane struggled with the anger of Mrs. Gersham after turning down her nephew’s proposal. Elizabeth upsets the Lady Catherine de Bourgh after turning down Collins

The Ultimate Difference • Elizabeth and her sister married for love • Austen and Cassandra never married • Austen became a world renowned author