Intro Paragraph - Describe the social power (gender and class) that is prevalent in the 1800's. Men have considerable social power because not only of their gender, but in Darcy and Mr. Collins's case, their class and economic standing. Give background information about Jane Austen; a little about her history and what she personally experienced and how she incorporated Darcy and Mr. Collins to reveal the separation between men and women.
First Body Paragraph: Marriage - Darcy refuses to even dance with a girl who does not live up to his high standards of a perfect girl; Darcy idealizes himself and feels that initially he can only accept someone who lives up to his idealization. Even when Darcy begins to have feelings for Elizabeth, he feels ashamed of himself for liking her, as she is not nearly as wealthy as him. Darcy judges people not by who they are, but rather by what they have. Mr. Collins similarly believes that Elizabeth will accept his proposal just based on the fact that he will be able to provide her a wealthier life than what she has. Collins ignores the realization that there is no love between them; rather, Collins argues that they should marry simply because it would make him happy and he will inherit the Bennet's house once Mr. Bennet dies.
Second Body Paragraph: Womens' social power rests entirely on their husband/family: Women in the 1800's, such as Jane Austen herself, had little to no social power simply based on their gender; however, if women were to have strong economic support, then they still could gain some power. In Mrs. Bennet's situation, her sole desire was to marry off her daughters into rich, secure families.
Conclusion: wrap up the idea of social power, womens' reliance on men, and Darcy and Mr. Collins higher social class over Elizabeth.
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