Earlier this week in class, we discussed relationships within Pride and Prejudice. One of the relationships discussed was the relationship between Jane and Elizabeth. One of the reasons that the relationship works is because Jane and Elizabeth are so different even though they are sisters.
In terms of Elizabeth who is brash, outspoken, and not afraid to speak her mind, Jane is much more composed. She is naive to the ways of the world and shows compassion to everyone in situations where they do not deserve it. For example, when Mr Darcy ruins her upcoming engagement Jane harbours the least amount of resentment towards and simply writes it off. Elizabeth on the other hand is furious at Mr. Darcy for his actions.
I think these characters are Austen's way of channeling world views about femininity during the time period. While Jane was how the world viewed women, Elizabeth was how Austen viewed herself. Maybe Austen considered herself more outspoken then the world would allow. That could be why she wrote anonomysly for her entire life. Maybe she did not think the world was ready for her kind of female.
I know others touched on this topic in their blogs this week so I just wanted to offer my two cents.
I completely agree. I think Jane is who Jane Austen had to be during the day, in public. At night or through literature she had the power to be and to create people as she wished, like Elizabeth for instance.
ReplyDelete