CHAPTER XV

Summary

• Mr. Collins is introduced as an unremarkable and self-important clergyman, heavily influenced by his illiterate, miserly father and a lack of substantial education or social experience.
• He owes his current position as rector of Hunsford to Lady Catherine de Bourgh, whom he regards with a mix of admiration and obsequiousness.
• Mr. Collins has decided to marry and sees choosing one of the Bennet sisters as a way to atone for inheriting their father's estate, believing this plan to be very generous on his part.
• Initially, Mr. Collins sets his sights on Jane Bennet as his future wife, but when Mrs. Bennet hints that Jane is likely to become engaged soon, he quickly switches his attentions to Elizabeth.
• Mrs. Bennet, who had previously been dismissive of Mr. Collins, now views him favorably, hoping for a marriage between him and Elizabeth.
• Mr. Collins accompanies the Bennet sisters (except Mary) on a walk to Meryton at Mr. Bennet's suggestion, as Mr. Bennet is eager to reclaim his library from Mr. Collins’s incessant chatter.
• During the walk, the party meets a young man named Mr. Wickham, newly introduced by Mr. Denny, who has recently brought him back from London. Mr. Wickham has secured a lieutenant's commission and impresses everyone with his charm, looks, and engaging manners.
• While conversing, the group encounters Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy. Bingley greets them warmly, focusing especially on Jane, but Darcy and Wickham share a tense, awkward moment, exchanging cold acknowledgments that astonish Elizabeth.
• Mr. Denny and Mr. Wickham escort the Bennet sisters to their aunt Mrs. Philips's house but politely decline invitations to enter, despite Lydia and Mrs. Philips insisting.
• At Mrs. Philips's home, Mr. Collins is introduced and captivates her with excessive politeness and flattery, leaving her impressed by his demeanor.
• Mrs. Philips discusses Mr. Wickham briefly, revealing little more than the fact that he was brought by Mr. Denny and has joined the local regiment, but her nieces, Kitty and Lydia, are enamored with him.
• The evening concludes with Mrs. Philips extending an invitation for the following night, promising a lively game and supper, with plans to include Mr. Wickham in the gathering.
• On the walk back home, Elizabeth recounts to Jane the strange interaction between Darcy and Wickham, leaving them both puzzled about its meaning.
• Mr. Collins continues praising Mrs. Philips, comparing her favorably to Lady Catherine and professing her exceptional hospitality and manners, much to Mrs. Bennet's satisfaction.