Characterization of Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy in Jane Austen's Pride and PrejudiceElizabeth Bennet, the heroine of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, is an authentic character, who allows readers to identify, sympathize and grow with her. Unfortunately, Austen does not create a match with Elizabeth who is her equal in terms of characterization. Mr. Darcy, once Elizabeth's opponent, beloved and, finally, husband, is not crafted with the same care as her, since his character is somewhat undefined, made only of mystery, inconsistency and conventionality. judgments and equally ready to hold firm to those preconceptions. Indeed, Elizabeth represents both aspects of the novel's title, being both proud and prejudicial. It is not these factors, then, that endear her to readers, but rather the depth of her character as she develops into a more balanced person with a rare capacity for self-awareness. Indeed, although she once has the highest regard for Mr. Wickham and a low opinion of Mr. Darcy, later, although it is her "greatest misfortune" (Austen 61), Elizabeth changes her previous thought by "feeling that she has been blind, partial, prejudiced, and absurd” (135). It is evident that she matures into a fully developed woman who can admit, “‘Until this moment, I have never known myself’” (135, emphasis mine). an enigma. Although he is apparently handsome, his physical attributes are anonymous; readers can learn more about the person and tastes of this powerful figure from Pemberley's description, his great estate is really an extension or reflection of Mr. Darcy, Elizabeth is reflecting that "to be Pemberley's lover might be so... middle of paper..." exactly the man who, in character and talent, would be most suited to her" (Austen 199 ). Works Cited Auerbach, Nina. “Waiting Together: Pride and Prejudice.” Pride and prejudice. By Jane Austen. Ed. Donald Gray. New York: Norton and Co., 1993. pp. 336-348. Austen, Jane. Pride and prejudice. " Pride and Prejudice. By Jane Austen. Ed. Donald Gray. New York: Norton and Co., 1993. pp. 291-295. Johnson, Claudia L. "Pride and Prejudice and the Pursuit of Happiness." Pride and Prejudice. By Jane Austen. Ed. Donald Gray: Norton and Co., 1993. pp. 367-376 Co., 1993, pp. 295-303.