Pride and Prejudice Blog 4

In the given passage, Austen employs descriptively deliberate diction and syntax to convey the impertinently jealous character of Caroline Bingley. It is shown that Caroline holds contempt for Elizabeth's relationship with Mr. Darcy through her "sneering(ly) civil" attitude (logos). This attitude is a manifestation of the "jealousy (that) had not yet made her desperate" (ethos). Caroline has been overtaken by the green monster of jealousy and although not yet acting out in desperation, this jealousy has given her the audacity to act against the usually polite societal standards and deliberately make the situation awkward through her conversation. Austen displays Caroline's degree of jealousy through her rationality lacking attempt at conversation, "(the militia) must be a great loss to your family". With this statement, Caroline looks to call the attention of the party, mostly Darcy, to Elizabeth's less than quintessential family and in doing so, juxtapose it with her own, more ideal stature in life (ethos). Caroline is driven by her "imprudence of anger", which being a relatable feeling allows Austen to connect the audience to her and create a more defined disposition (pathos). In describing Caroline's emotions, Austen allows her underlying motives regarding Mr. Darcy to shine through (logos). Through Miss Bingley's dialogue, demeanor, and overall lack of civility, Austen establishes not only her truly jealous character, but also one which can be related to and better understood.