Understanding Elizabeth's Tension in 'Pride and Prejudice': A Closer Look at Triumph and Mortality

The quote from Pride and Prejudice that 'There must be a triumph while he was mortal,' when spoken by Elizabeth Bennet in Chapter 50, encapsulates a complex psychological note that underscores the novel's exploration of themes such as love, pride, and the impermanence of social hierarchies. This passage, located after Elizabeth learns of Lydia's elopement with Wickham, presents a deep interplay of emotions and societal expectations. Let us break it down to grasp its significance better.

Context and Characters

At the heart of the passage is the relationship between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, two central figures in Jane Austen's classic. The dynamic between Elizabeth and Darcy is one of continuous evolution, marked by misunderstandings, personal growth, and eventual love.

Elizabeth's mind, at the time of this revelation, is a conflicted landscape. She is grappling with the revelation that Darcy, who in the past was considered arrogant and insufferable, has now displayed a depth of character that she appreciates dearly. However, the statement 'while he was mortal' hints at a lingering sense of inferiority that Elizabeth feels towards Darcy, rooted in her perception of him as a man of higher social standing and virtue.

Elizabeth's Inner Turmoil

Elizabeth's inner turmoil is vividly described in the quote, 'what a triumph for him as she often thought could he know that the proposals which she had proudly spurned only four months ago would now have been gladly and gratefully received!' This statement highlights her conflicting feelings, indicating a recognition of Darcy's potential happiness at this turn of events and her corresponding sense of unworthiness.

Elizabeth's current state of mind is a paradox. She realizes that she would now accept Darcy not because of a change in him but because of her own evolving understanding of him. However, this realization also comes with a gnawing feeling of inadequacy. She acknowledges that in some cosmic sense, Darcy may derive a sense of triumph from her predicament, a triumph rooted in her family's current shameful connection to Wickham. This adds a layer of bitterness to Elizabeth's perception, as she is aware of the irony in this.

The Nature of Triumph in Mortality

The term 'triumph' in the context of Elizabeth and Darcy's relationship is multifaceted. It encapsulates not just personal satisfaction but also the broader themes of social status and the unbridgeable gap between them. Darcy, who rises 'toward the gods with every temporal advancement,' remains 'a mortal' in Elizabeth's eyes. This distinction highlights the socio-class dynamics that plague their relationship and the broader social fabric of the time.

Elizabeth's realisation that Darcy will still feel a sense of triumph, albeit a muted one, reveals the inherent challenges in romantic relationships where societal norms loom large. Her anxiety stems from the realization that even though Darcy may now be more relatable, he will still outshine her in many aspects, including social standing and personal virtues.

Future and Hope

In the quotation, Elizabeth hints at a hope that there might be a triumph for her, one that arises from future opportunities. This idea is a manifestation of her desire for a better future, where she can find her own triumph, perhaps through some 'weakness' or 'favourable inclination' in Darcy, or even through some external factor. It is this anticipation of a future where she might find herself equal to Darcy, that forms the underlying anxiety in her mind.

The quote can also be seen as an authorial insight, as it anticipates the happy future that will unfold for Elizabeth and Darcy. Austen, through Elizabeth's voice, hints at the eventual triumph that comes from love and understanding, despite the obstacles of their past.

Conclusion

'There must be a triumph while he was mortal,' encapsulates the complex interplay of emotions and social dynamics that drive the narrative of 'Pride and Prejudice.' It is a poignant reminder of the enduring themes of love, pride, and social hierarchy that lie at the heart of the novel. Elizabeth's tension in this moment is a reflection of the broader struggles that she and Darcy face, and the eventual triumph that comes from their mutual understanding and love.

The key themes here are Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth Bennet, and Darcy's Triumph, which are paramount in understanding the depth and complexity of the relationships within the novel.