In the search of a husband for their daughters, Mr Bennet values a loving union whereas Mrs Bennet values social status. The opening chapter sets the scene of the novel, highlighting the tension between these two very different characters. It begins with Mr Bennet mocking his wife: Mr Bennet understands the importance of Mr Bingleys visit but acts up his disinterest, “You are over scrupulous surely.” (Chapter one)
For Mrs Bennet, it is more important to marry off her daughters to eligible, young men without concern for their emotional well-being, “She was a woman of mean understanding, little information and uncertain temper.” (Chapter one) This may be deemed as bad conduct for a parent generally in this day and age, but in this day and age women have more rights – the right to vote, the right to speak opinion, the right to income. Rather than interpreting her as a woman of mean understanding, little information and uncertain temper, we should perceive her as a prudent mother despite her sometimes irrational remarks.
As we progress through every chapter, a clearer picture of Mr Bennet is drawn. We see him firmly attached to his books and readings, and more detached from his family. Even when Elizabeth warns him not to allow Lydia to go to Brighton, for her own safety, he barely acknowledges Elizabeth’s statement and proceeds in his own thoughts. It seems that Mr and Mrs Bennet are both two sides of the same coin; they both ignore the needs of their daughters.
As we take a step back and look at the broader picture we realise that they actually complement each other in their different views. Mr Bennet being the intellectual and Mrs. Bennet being the practical woman. I believe both parents provide a diverse set of personalities, that all the daughters can take upon and learn from, when they are fully grown independent women. For instance the show of Elizabeth’s independent streak when she goes to visit her sister in Netherfield on foot, despite her mother telling her to go by horse “No, indeed. I do not wish to avoid the walk. The distance is nothing”
I believe that deep down Mrs Bennet is not a bad woman or a bad mother. Her take on life is a reflection of her upbringing which, in her eyes, must be passed down to her daughters. She tries to understand her daughter’s problems but still her response reflects her 18th century upbringing and their definition of how a woman should conduct herself. Her beliefs and values are those of a woman who is dependable on men, and with one concern – marriage.
In the 18th century class was of great importance. Class covered a wide range in aspects of society and wealth. The way people were behaving and misbehaving characterised them as a member of the social group. This including Mr and Mrs Bennet.
The relationship between Mr and Mrs Bennet appears to be false. They share very little in common, Mrs Bennet investing her time marrying her daughters off and Mr Bennet, escaping into his books. On a deeper level however, if either one of them were to fall ill one would be as much hurt as the other.
With respect to their relationship with their daughters, Mr Bennet shows signs of love and care as much as Mrs Bennet does in her own way, and they are a good mother and father to the extent that nobody is a perfect human being or a perfect parent.
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