CHAPTER XIX
Summary
- Elizabeth reflects on her parents' unsuitable marriage, noting that her father, Mr. Bennet, married Mrs. Bennet for her youthful beauty and humor but soon lost respect and affection for her due to her irresponsible and foolish nature.
- Mr. Bennet seeks solace in his love of books and rural life, deriving amusement from his wife's ignorance but failing to fulfill his role as a supportive husband, which Elizabeth finds disappointing.
- Elizabeth becomes more aware of the negative consequences of her parents' flawed marriage, particularly in undermining the respectability and potential of their children.
- After Wickham departs, Elizabeth finds little joy in the loss of the regiment as the household remains burdened by Mrs. Bennet's and Lydia's frivolity and complaints.
- Elizabeth anticipates her upcoming tour to the Lakes as a source of happiness but is disappointed when it is curtailed to Derbyshire due to Mr. Gardiner's business obligations.
- Despite her disappointment, Elizabeth resolves to remain optimistic and adjusts her expectations for the scaled-back trip.
- Elizabeth associates Derbyshire with Mr. Darcy due to its proximity to Pemberley, his estate, and becomes anxious at the thought of encountering him there.
- Mrs. Gardiner expresses a desire to visit Pemberley, and Elizabeth feigns disinterest, fearful of crossing paths with Mr. Darcy.
- Elizabeth subtly inquires about the Darcy family’s presence at Pemberley and is relieved to learn that they are absent, freeing her to agree to the visit with curiosity.
- The chapter ends with the plan set for Elizabeth and the Gardiners to visit Pemberley, marking the conclusion of the second volume.