The Family

• What is the prime unit of social life in Pride and Prejudice?

  The family
• How does the family influence the Bennet daughters?

  It provides their education and manners
• What role does social ranking play in the Bennet daughters' lives?

  It determines their future success
• How are Jane and Elizabeth characterized in the novel?

  As mature, intelligent adults
• How is Lydia characterized in contrast to Jane and Elizabeth?

  As hapless
• What does the conflict between Elizabeth and her mother reveal?

  It displays the family's overall character
• What role do Elizabeth's aunt and uncle play in the family dynamic?

  They act as substitute parents
• What do the Gardiners provide during key moments of stress?

  Much needed emotional support
• How does Jane Austen portray the influence of family in Pride and Prejudice?

  • Family is the emotional center
  • Shapes characters' education and manners
  • Determines social ranking and future success
  • Displays conflicts and sympathies among members
  • Extended family influences through substitute roles