Literature
Colonel Fitzwilliams Financial Situation in Jane Austens Pride and Prejudice
Colonel Fitzwilliam's Financial Situation in Jane Austen's 'Pride and Prejudice'
Introduction
In Jane Austen's classic novel Pride and Prejudice, Colonel Fitzwilliam is a character whose financial situation plays a significant role in the plot. His background, as a younger son, contributes to the dialogue surrounding marriage and wealth in 19th-century England. This article explores the financial circumstances of Colonel Fitzwilliam and how they influence his decisions and interactions with other characters.
Circumstances of a Younger Son
Colonel Fitzwilliam is a younger son. In the context of the early 19th century, this meant that he was unlikely to inherit any substantial property or wealth from his father, as the eldest son typically received the family estate. This situation often compelled younger sons to find alternative means of support or to pursue more lucrative careers.
Buying a Commission and a Salary
To secure a comfortable living, Colonel Fitzwilliam's father likely purchased a military commission for him. This was a common practice among upper-class families to ensure financial stability for their younger sons. By obtaining a commission, Colonel Fitzwilliam could earn a regular salary and, if distinguished in his service, even receive prize money. While these sources of income would be sufficient to provide a modest lifestyle, they would not be enough to support a wife and a family in the grand style to which Colonel Fitzwilliam is accustomed.
The Impact on His Eligibility for Marriage
Given Colonel Fitzwilliam's financial situation, his desire to marry would be influenced by the financial resources of potential brides. He is portrayed as having a preference for young women with suitable dowries, indicating that he would need additional financial support to sustain a household in the manner to which he is accustomed. This pragmatic approach to marriage reveals the economic pressures faced by characters in 19th-century England, where financial stability was closely tied to social status.
Financial Influences in Selecting a Bride
Colonel Fitzwilliam's financial predicament is a recurring theme in the novel. His interactions with other characters often revolve around discussions of money and marriage. For instance, his conversation with Elizabeth Bennet highlights his awareness of the economic considerations involved in matrimony. He is willing to consider a marriage based on intelligence and good character, rather than purely financial considerations, but he would not presume to marry an elderly, unattractive woman merely for financial reasons. This balance between practical and idealistic considerations in choosing a partner is a central theme in the novel.
Conclusion
Colonel Fitzwilliam's financial situation in Pride and Prejudice is a critical aspect of his character and the narrative. His background as a younger son, combined with the need to secure a stable income, influences his marital choices and relationships. His pragmatic approach to marriage, while not solely financial, does highlight the significant role that economic considerations played in the 19th-century matrimonial environment. By exploring his financial story, we gain insight into the complex interplay of love, wealth, and social status in Jane Austen's world.
Keywords: Colonel Fitzwilliam, Jane Austen, financial situation, Pride and Prejudice
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