8
Select the correct text in the passage.
Which two parts in these excerpts from Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice illustrate the theme of pride?
1. Oh! my dear Mr. Bennet," as she entered the room, "we have had a most delightful evening, a most excellent ball. I wish you had been there.
Jane was so admired, nothing could be like it. Everybody said how well she looked;
and Mr. Bingley thought her quite beautiful, and danced
with
her twice! Only think of that, my dear; he actually danced with her twice! and she
was the only creature in the room that he asked a second time
.
First of all, he asked Miss Lucas. I was so vexed to see him stand up with her!
2. "His pride," said Miss Lucas, "does not offend me so much as pride often does, because there is an excuse for it. One cannot wonder that so very
fine a young man, with family, fortune, everything in his favour, should think highly of
himself. If I may so express it, he has a right to be proud."
"That is very true," replied Elizabeth, "and I could easily forgive his pride, if he had not mortified mine."
3. "Well," said Charlotte, "I wish Jane success with all my heart; and if she were married to him to-morrow, I should think she had as good a chance
of happiness as if she were to be studying his character for a twelvemonth. Happiness in
marriage is entirely a matter of chance. If the
dispositions of the parties are ever so well known to each other or ever so similar
beforehand, it does not advance their felicity in the
least. They
always continue to grow sufficiently unlike afterwards to have their share of vexation
; and it is better to know as little as possible of the defects of
the person with whom you are to pass your life."



Answer :

In the given excerpts from Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, the two parts that illustrate the theme of pride are: 1. The first part where Miss Bingley expresses her delight and pride in Jane's popularity at the ball, highlighting Mr. Bingley's attention towards Jane and her special treatment as the only one he asked to dance with twice. This showcases a sense of pride in Jane's desirability and social status. 2. The second part where Miss Lucas and Elizabeth discuss Mr. Darcy's pride based on his social standing, wealth, and self-importance. Miss Lucas offers a somewhat forgiving view of Mr. Darcy's pride due to his favorable circumstances, while Elizabeth admits that his pride has hurt her own feelings. This interaction reveals the impact of pride on relationships and personal emotions. Both of these parts exemplify different aspects of pride – one through social status and admiration, and the other through self-perception and its effects on others. Pride is a central theme in the novel, influencing character interactions and shaping the narrative throughout the story.

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