Elizabeth Bennet is arguably one of Jane Austen's most
beloved characters. I personally believe this is due, in part, to her characteristic
honesty and ability to make what some might describe as "outspoken" a quality of grace
and admiration.
Elizabeth Bennet has high standards both
for herself and others. Because of this, she is often critical, but not necessarily
mean nor rude. Actually, she's often quite funny. Her quick wit and ironic (or dry)
sense of humor were not exactly socially acceptable for women in her society, which only
shows her boldness and confidence to be herself even when it isn't necessarily
"fashionable" to do so.
Throughout the novel, we see
Elizabeth's struggle between saying and acting out exactly what is on her mind or
practicing the self-control that is expected of her. We're proud when she accomplishes
either, because she manages to make every decision through a perspective of learned
intelligence combined with common sense. Because she herself is authentic, she is
attracted to others who have a strong sense of self.
Her
stubbornness too is a loveable quality, because this means Elizabeth Bennet is not
perfect. The majority of her problems stem from her equal parts "pride" and
"prejudice." Really, the foundation of the entire novel is summed up in this one
character, who grows from beginning to end in finding a balance between these
qualities.
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