Charlotte Lucas quotes + analysis

• "I am not romantic you know. I never was. I ask only for a comfortable home

  Elizabeth and Charlotte make very different choices with their contrastive beliefs on marriage. Charlotte Lucas has a superficial view on marriage. All she can ask for Is a 'comfortable home' she does not seek a gracious and thoughtful man, but rather she bases her ideals exclusively on a man's family social rank, money and connections
• 'Engaged to Mr Collins!

  Elizabeth expresses incredulity at the idea of her friend being engaged to the socially awkward and unsuitable Mr Collins. Austen uses the exclamatory statement 'impossible!' to emphasise Elizabeth's disbelief and shock, this punctuation choice amplifies the emotional intensity of her response and underscores the societal misconduct associated with marrying someone like Mr Collins. Austen's use of the possessive pronoun 'my dear Charlotte' adds a layer of intimacy and affection to Elizabeth's address, reinforcing the bond between the two friends
• "'happiness in marriage..

  Charlotte's pragmatic view on marriage reflects her practicality and resignation to the social realities of her time. As a woman without significant wealth or prospects, Charlotte understands the necessity of securing a husband for financial security and social standing, even if it means sacrificing romantic ideals or personal preferences. The use of the noun "chance" implies a lack of control or agency in determining the outcome of one's marital prospects, highlighting the notion that individuals often had limited say in selecting their partners.