First Impressions

“Mr. Darcy had at first scarcely allowed her to be pretty; he had looked at her without admiration at the ball; and when they next met, he looked at her only to criticize. But no sooner had he made it clear to himself and his friends that she hardly had a good feature in her face, than he began to find it was rendered uncommonly intelligent by the beautiful expression of her dark eyes. To this discovery succeeded some others equally mortifying.” (pg. 20)

This quote shows the slow progression of Darcy’s feelings for Elizabeth, although Elizabeth is blissfully unaware of his attraction towards her. When the two characters first met at the Meryton assembly he had scarcely allowed her to be pretty, “’she is tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt me;” (pg. 9). As Darcy’s friend, Mr. Bingley becomes more acquainted with Jane, Elizabeth’s sister; Darcy and Elizabeth meet on many different occasions. He realizes through these interactions he is becoming attracted to her. Though is still able to find many faults in her character. This quote marks a turning point on how Mr. Darcy views Elizabeth. This quote embodies many of the books main themes, love and class and social standings, shown through pride. Darcy’s pride caused him to cast his first impression of Elizabeth’s character merely because of the way her family acted, and where they stood in society. And love as he overcomes his pride and learns who Elizabeth actually is.