2007. In many works of literature, past events can affect, positively or negatively, the present activities, attitudes, or values of a character. Choose a novel or play in which a character must contend with some aspect of the past, either personal or societal. Then write an essay in which you show how the character's relationship to the past contributes to the meaning of the work as a whole.
First impressions are always very important, even in a piece of literature. Often, an event in the past can shape the whole future of the book. This is the case in Pride and Prejudice. In the first few chapters of Pride and Prejudice there is a huge party held at Mr. Bingley's mansion. At this gathering, lasting impressions are made and shape the story as it progresses. Because of the party, the relationship between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy seems more unlikely than before and contributes to the message that Jane Austen attempts to convey through the text. Through the use of past events, Austen creates an unlikely relationship that greatly differs from those of her time to show her disapproval of the marriage customs of her time.
Being the first introduction to most of the characters in the play, this party goes into detail about the personality of the main characters in this novel. Here, the reader can see just how different all of the Bennet sisters are. Lydia is young and slightly wild, Elizabeth is has bit of a temper and is stubborn, and finally, Jane who is kind and overall very compassionate toward others. Their personalities shape the way in which the interact at this party and with the others there. The distinct difference tend to determine the types of relationships these women hold later on in the novel. Lydia runs off with Wickham with little thought beforehand, showing her young personality with this relationship. Jane’s attitude is showcased in her relationship with Mr. Bingley and the slow and gentle nature of it. These relationships started at the party continue throughout the novel.
In the case of Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth, this is one event that shapes their relationship for the duration of the book. After overhearing Mr. Darcy talking about her, Elizabeth is quick to pass judgement on him. Because of this, Elizabeth sees Mr. Darcy as full of himself and not worth her time. This affects the dynamic of their relationship throughout the whole book. Mr. Darcy begins to fall for Elizabeth, however she is reluctant to let him into her life. Elizabeth associates Darcy, with the first time she met him for the majority of the book. She has trouble putting the past behind her with Darcy and denies each one of his romantic advances. After much effort is put in on Mr. Darcy's part, the painful past slowly leaves Elizabeth's mind and eventually leads to them being together. The unlikely relationship created despite a horrid first impression helps Austen prove that if two people are meant to be together they will be. Their relationship is specifically created to showcase the love that Austen wishes that she could have.
