18th November 1811
Dear Miss Elizabeth Bennet,
Several days ago, I deemed to explain to you the idea of an ‘accomplished’ woman, conversely due to the lack of explanation the description conveyed was rather uninformative and tedious. Consequently, I write in another attempt to clarify my points, as I am not one who is virtuous at expressing myself verbally.
Women are to be perfect with a decent family background, impeccable manners and perfect etiquette. Though an ‘accomplished’ woman must also have talents in music, drawing, dancing and a modern language to deserve the word. Such expected features apply to the women of your class. Miss Bennet, on that day at Lady Catherine de Bourgh’s estate, I listened vigilantly to the pianoforte being played by you and observed that it requires practice. Such perfection is highly required to those who play the pianoforte, as this justifies you to be an ‘accomplished’ woman.
