Pride And Prejudice Small Town Setting

Modern society is condemnatory towards people who stray from social expectations. The late 18th century England setting of Jane Austen's novel Pride and Prejudice is no different. Women were expected to be prim and proper, and men were supposed to be able to provide for their family. Everyone knew everyone else’s business in the gossipy town of Meryton. In this novel, the small town setting builds up gossip, family reputation, and the over-awareness of class distinctions affects characters. Meryton as the primary setting affects character's actions because it is a small town where everyone knows everyone else’s business. In a society where reputation is of the utmost importance, a small town such as Meryton means that there are no secrets. A tiny village full of gossipy people also implies that if a significant event occurs, everyone would know of it. An example of this is when Bingley

Mrs. Bennet in particular is sensitive to the fact that none of her daughters are married, as of the beginning of the story. This is portrayed through the opening line of Pride and Prejudice, stating that “It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife” (Austen). This is demonstrated when Lydia runs off with Wickham. Everyone in the small town of Meryton is aware of Lydia’s scandal. If Lydia came back without marrying Wickham, she would ruin marriage prospects for herself and family. As such, with the help of generous Darcy, the Bennets paid Wickham to marry Lydia to preserve the family reputation. Another example of the importance of family reputation to characters is when Elizabeth visits Netherfield to see her sick sister. The Bingley sisters are appalled by how muddy her dress is when Lizzy arrives. In particular, appearance is essential in upper-class society, and being seen with someone who is disheveled horrifies these two