3 questions for my JA Film & Lit class
1. Why does Darcy not defend himself immediately, when Elizabeth accuses him of being unjust to Wickham? Why is his explanation in a letter? Letters cannot reveal subtle clues to character such as facial expression, tone, stance, etc. Based on the proposal scene, why would Darcy choose to express himself with words alone?
2. Elizabeth has a ‘turning point’ while reading Darcy’s letter. She acknowledges Darcy to be correct and sees his behavior in a completely new light. Does Jane Austen write this in a way so that the reader, too, is also surprised and enlightened- or have we had any hints to their true nature all along? This section of the novel makes us stop and reflect on past chapters with Wickham, Bingly, and Darcy; perhaps flipping back and re reading more critically. Is this intentional, and is it effective in moving the story forward?
3. Elizabeth seems to project very little emotion during the proposal, only seeming to become angry afterwards. Do you find this an accurate portrayal, based on knowledge of her character and of this scene in the text?
Meh...I suppose they are okay, but not great. My fellow Austenphiles, any tips?
2. Elizabeth has a ‘turning point’ while reading Darcy’s letter. She acknowledges Darcy to be correct and sees his behavior in a completely new light. Does Jane Austen write this in a way so that the reader, too, is also surprised and enlightened- or have we had any hints to their true nature all along? This section of the novel makes us stop and reflect on past chapters with Wickham, Bingly, and Darcy; perhaps flipping back and re reading more critically. Is this intentional, and is it effective in moving the story forward?
3. Elizabeth seems to project very little emotion during the proposal, only seeming to become angry afterwards. Do you find this an accurate portrayal, based on knowledge of her character and of this scene in the text?
Meh...I suppose they are okay, but not great. My fellow Austenphiles, any tips?