Volume One

Summary

• The chapter opens with the universally acknowledged truth that a wealthy single man is presumed to be seeking a wife.
• Mrs. Bennet informs Mr. Bennet that Netherfield Park has been rented by a young man of considerable fortune named Mr. Bingley.
• Mrs. Bennet excitedly shares that Mr. Bingley is single, and views him as a significant opportunity for one of her daughters to marry well.
• Mr. Bennet, with his characteristic wit and sarcasm, expresses skepticism and teases Mrs. Bennet about her intentions and eagerness.
• Mrs. Bennet tries to persuade Mr. Bennet to visit Mr. Bingley, as social etiquette requires a formal introduction before the family can interact with him.
• Mr. Bennet sarcastically suggests sending a note to give Mr. Bingley permission to marry whoever he chooses, but he refuses to make the visit himself.
• Mrs. Bennet insists on the importance of the visit, emphasizing that other neighbors, like Sir William and Lady Lucas, are already planning to meet Mr. Bingley.
• The conversation shifts to Mr. Bennet’s teasing remarks about their daughters, highlighting their faults but singling out Lizzy (Elizabeth Bennet) as having “something more of quickness” than her sisters.
• Mrs. Bennet is frustrated by Mr. Bennet’s sarcastic humor and lack of alignment with her goal of securing advantageous marriages for their daughters.
• The chapter concludes with a brief character sketch of the Bennets: Mr. Bennet is sarcastic, intelligent, and reserved, while Mrs. Bennet has a simpler mind, is preoccupied with matchmaking, and is prone to nervous complaints.