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What happens in Chapters 56–61 of Pride and Prejudice?
In Chapter 56, Lady Catherine visits the Bennets and says that she heard a rumor Darcy plans to marry Elizabeth. In Chapter 57, Mr. Bennet hears the same, which makes him laugh, as he assumes Elizabeth detests Darcy. In Chapter 58, Darcy tells Elizabeth he still wishes to marry her. In Chapter 59, after Darcy asks Mr. Bennet for his consent to marry Elizabeth, Mr. Bennet needs Elizabeth to convince him that she does indeed care for Darcy. In Chapter 60, Elizabeth shares the news of her engagement with friends and family. In Chapter 61, after the weddings, Bingley moves to an estate near Pemberley, allowing the Bennet sisters to visit each other frequently.
Read our Summary & Analysis of Chapters 56–61. (3-minute read)
What does Lady Catherine’s visit foreshadow?
Lady Catherine de Bourgh visits to Longbourn to warn Elizabeth off becoming engaged to Darcy. This signals to the reader that a proposal from Darcy is indeed coming.
Read about Foreshadowing in Pride and Prejudice.
What famous quote from Pride and Prejudice appears in Chapter 58?
The following quote precedes Darcy’s second proposal, and illustrates the extent to which he has changed, even though his feelings for Elizabeth have not:
“If your feelings are still what they were last April, tell me so at once. My affections and wishes are unchanged, but one word from you will silence me on this subject forever.”
Read the complete quote from Chapter 58 and a full explanation of it.
What important themes does the text explore in Chapters 56–61?
These chapters explore several themes. The conversation between Lady Catherine and Elizabeth underscores the theme of Divisions of Social Class as Lady Catherine insists marrying Elizabeth will disgrace Darcy, while Elizabeth’s refusal to bow to Lady Catherine’s influence (or anyone else’s) speaks to the theme of Integrity. Finally, when Darcy proposes and Elizabeth accepts, both have overcome their pride and prejudice in order to do so, and the novel’s overarching message about the importance of love comes to fruition.
Read about the key Themes of Pride and Prejudice. (3-minute read)
