Miss Bingley and Darcy

In the novel, Pride and Prejudice, we are introduced to many different characters and the relationships they have with others. While some of these relationships grow and develop into something deeper and more meaningful, others do not advance and quickly fall short.  While there are a lot of memorable romantic relationships in the novel, there are many that are quickly forgotten. Such an example is the relationship between Miss Bingley and Mr. Darcy. The majority, if not all of the effort put forth, comes from Miss Bingley. Jane Austen makes it very clear that Darcy has no interest in Miss Bingley, while she on the other hand lingers on his every word and movement. Miss Bingley quickly reveals her jealous and very insecure nature as she spends half of her time criticizing Elizabeth, and the other half infatuated with Darcy.

                It can be inferred that the relationship between Darcy and Miss Bingley began due to the friendship between Darcy and Mr. Bingley. When Miss Bingley’s attempts to win over Darcy’s attention and affection fail, she resorts to belittling and attacking Elizabeth, in an attempt to prevent Darcy from forming an attachment to Elizabeth. Miss Bingley’s superficiality peaks through in her comments regarding Lizzy. She frequently comments on her social status, physical appearance, and family in an effort to make Mr. Bingley find her less appealing. “I must confess that I never could see any beauty in her… and in her air altogether, there is a self-sufficiency without fashion which is intolerable.” (226) Austen uses a great deal of detail when describing how Miss Bingley feels about Lizzy. It shows the effort she puts into attempting to make Darcy see Lizzy as unappealing and undesirable. Even though she is harshly criticized by Miss Bingley, Lizzy is seen as a threat to Miss Bingley and her chances of marrying Darcy. "...and Darcy had never been so bewitched by any woman as he was by her [Elizabeth]...Miss Bingley saw, or suspected enough to be jealous; and her great anxiety for the recovery of her dear friend Jane, received some assistance from her desire of getting rid of Elizabeth." (46) There’s a great deal of irony in the situation. As much as Miss Bingley belittles and looks down upon Elizabeth, she ultimately sees her as a threat and competition for the affection of Darcy.

                Miss Bingley demonstrates very desperate behavior while around Darcy. His responses, or more so lack of, show his disinterest in her. While Darcy is writing to his sister, Miss Bingley hovers around him and swoons over his ability to write. The whole conversation that they share consists of compliments from Miss Bingley and dismissing replies from Darcy. Miss Bingley compliments him saying, “You write uncommonly fast.” to which he replies, “You are mistaken. I write rather slowly.” (42) Austen’s use of short, blunt responses from Darcy shows his disdain towards Miss Bingley. The lack of detail and effort in his words shows his unwillingness to give into her compliments and desperation to converse. Austen’s depiction of Miss Bingley’s character shows her insecurity and superficiality, as she never fully engages in a deep meaningful conversation with Darcy. Additionally, her opinions of Lizzy are all based on superficial matters and ideas. Miss Bingley’s jealous, superficial, and obsessive nature ultimately pushes Darcy further away from her and results in the failed relationship.