The Worst Husband

From the start of the story, Mr. Bennet shows some opposition to please his wife. His reluctance to use his wife’s way of ensuring his daughter’s future makes him an interesting character. Unlike Mrs. Bennet who only cares about her daughter’s future economic wellbeing, he has a wider perspective on the situation. At first, he appears as a playful character that wished to see his family suffer a little before telling them he talked to Mr. Bingley. Now, we see his personality developed even farther. Also, we have a different view on what the couple’s relationship. Unlike a traditional image of a cooperating marriage where both parts seek the best for their children in a similar way, we see them here, as opposing forces.

When talking about character development this quotation is key: “‘My dear,’ replied her husband, ‘I have two small favours to request. First, that you will allow me the free use of my understanding on the present occasion; and secondly, of my room. I shall be glad to have the library to myself as soon as may be.’”. (85) This shows Mr. Bennet is a father that will oppose his wife for the sake of his daughters. Although sexism does influence the couple, by doing this, he entered a part of family life that the mother alone used to manage. His strong values guided him to this decision. Above all, he seems like a parent that only wishes for his daughter’s happiness. On the other hand, the mother appears to search for something else. She possibly wants to achieve her frustrated wish of marrying a rich man through her daughters. While it seems true right now, the book can only prove such supposition later on.

The relationship between Mr. and Mrs. Bennet evolves with the storyline. Even now, the story barely touches it but we can derive its most important element here: “Your mother will never see you again if you do not marry Mr. Collins, and I will never see you again if you do”. (p. 85) This action, other than saving Elizabeth from her mother’s intent, shows the character of the couple. Both wish for the wellbeing of Elizabeth but in conflicting ways. The father, being the authority of the family, wins at the moment but the overall conflicting nature of the two remain. Due to the mother’s inability to go against her husband’s wishes I reached a single conclusion: Mrs. Bennet is Mr. Bennet’s foil. Although she takes the initiative on ensuring a future for her daughters, the husband ultimately decides. Even if she appears more prominently than her husband, the difference in opinions and power leads me to believe she serves as a guideline of Mr.Bennet’s values.