Jane Austen and Women's Roles in 18th Century England: "Pride and Prejudice"

The place of unmarried women in British society was determined by their social status and the size of their dowries. Married women had more freedom and influence than unmarried women, and their positions were defined by the rank and wealth of their husbands. Unmarried women could be respected and influential, only if they were of high birth and had a great deal of money. Women of the low gentry, who were unlucky enough to have …

…sees the wisdom of marrying Mr. Collins. As Mrs. Collins, Charlotte will have gained the respect due to the wife of a parish clergyman. She will have her own home and family. When Mr. Collins inherits Mr. Bennet's estate, they will gain a house, an estate, and money. Charlotte is sensible enough to be grateful to Mr. Collins, and to improve him. She is clever enough to avoid his tedious company often enough at home.