CHAPTER XI

Summary

• Elizabeth reads Jane's letters from Kent and perceives a noticeable lack of cheerfulness in her sister’s tone, which she attributes to Mr. Darcy's interference in Jane’s relationship with Mr. Bingley.
• Despite her dislike of Mr. Darcy, Elizabeth finds solace in the thought that his visit to Rosings will soon end and that she will be reunited with Jane in less than two weeks.
• Elizabeth initially considers the possibility of Colonel Fitzwilliam visiting her but is shocked when Mr. Darcy unexpectedly arrives instead.
• Mr. Darcy, in an agitated and unrestrained manner, confesses his love for Elizabeth and proposes marriage, expressing that he has struggled against his feelings but can no longer suppress them.
• Instead of focusing solely on his affection, Mr. Darcy also dwells on Elizabeth's inferiority of connections and the obstacles to their union, which offends her deeply.
• Elizabeth is stunned by the proposal, but her astonishment quickly turns to anger as Darcy’s pride and condescension are revealed in his words.
• Elizabeth rejects his proposal firmly, stating that she has never sought his good opinion and could never accept him given her negative judgment of his character and past actions.
• Elizabeth accuses Mr. Darcy of interfering in Jane and Mr. Bingley’s relationship, causing immense distress to her sister, which he acknowledges but justifies as an act of kindness to his friend.
• She further confronts Mr. Darcy about his mistreatment of Mr. Wickham, accusing him of denying Wickham the benefits he was entitled to and reducing him to poverty.
• Darcy defends his behavior, expressing indignation over Elizabeth's accusations and suggesting that her rejection is influenced by her wounded pride over his honest declaration of feelings.
• Elizabeth criticizes Darcy's approach to his proposal, stating that his arrogance and lack of gentleman-like behavior have only solidified her long-standing dislike and refusal to marry him.
• Darcy, visibly affected and humiliated, acknowledges Elizabeth’s sentiments, apologizes for taking up her time, and hastily departs from the house.
• After Darcy’s departure, Elizabeth reflects emotionally on the astonishing offer of marriage and the depth of his feelings for her, but her anger over his pride, actions, and mistreatment of Jane and Wickham overrides any pity or gratified feelings she might have initially felt.
• Overwhelmed by her emotions, Elizabeth retreats to her room to avoid Charlotte and Lady Catherine, still processing the tumultuous encounter.