You make some very good points. I think the social media trend to sympathize with Mrs. Bennet's dread of poverty and anxiety over her family's future has some merit, but like so many social media trends, it goes way overboard.
Johnson's definition is a useful corrective: "mischief" in Austen carries real harm, not just high spirits. I am less sure the governess settles the question of money, though. When Lady Catherine is shocked that there was none, Elizabeth answers that those who wished to learn never lacked the means, with reading encouraged and masters hired as needed. That makes the gap between Elizabeth and Lydia look like one of temperament rather than opportunity, which rather supports your larger point.
Well in some ways, her ridiculousness is what holds the book together, no? As in, it's quite central. Can you imagine a P and P without her? One can imagine PP without Mr. Bennet, but not the mother.
As for Alderton, considering she got much of her inspiration from Bridge Jones Diary, I wouldn't expect much but I do think the Mrs. Bennet is the only properly cast character from what I could tell. I just wrote a post on it.
Excellent, Henry! I think the big problem is that too many people only know Mrs. Bennett through the movie adaptations, and have never read the book.
yes I agree
True. And, or, they did not read closely :( Speaking for myself, having read it when I was young.
You make some very good points. I think the social media trend to sympathize with Mrs. Bennet's dread of poverty and anxiety over her family's future has some merit, but like so many social media trends, it goes way overboard.
Johnson's definition is a useful corrective: "mischief" in Austen carries real harm, not just high spirits. I am less sure the governess settles the question of money, though. When Lady Catherine is shocked that there was none, Elizabeth answers that those who wished to learn never lacked the means, with reading encouraged and masters hired as needed. That makes the gap between Elizabeth and Lydia look like one of temperament rather than opportunity, which rather supports your larger point.
Well in some ways, her ridiculousness is what holds the book together, no? As in, it's quite central. Can you imagine a P and P without her? One can imagine PP without Mr. Bennet, but not the mother.
As for Alderton, considering she got much of her inspiration from Bridge Jones Diary, I wouldn't expect much but I do think the Mrs. Bennet is the only properly cast character from what I could tell. I just wrote a post on it.