Vanity vs. Pride

During the conversation between the Bennets and the Longbourns, Mary makes a comment on pride and vanity. “Vanity and pride are two different things, though the words are often used synonymously. A person may be proud without being vain. Pride relates more to our opinion of ourselves, vanity to what we would have others think of us”(21). While her explanation was short it was very clear. Not only did I fully understand her point but also it made me think of the two gentlemen in the story and how these two words apply to them.

During the ball Mr. Darcy turns his nose up to everyone there. He feels that he is better than everyone else and he would be punishing himself if he associated with anyone there. He seems to believe that other people should, if they don’t already, know, understand and accept this. According to Mary’s definition, he is vain.

Mr. Bingley on the other hand is proud. He knows his status but does not brag or believe that others think he is better than everyone. He is friendly and likeable while everyone dislikes his friend. The slight difference in the way these men think seem to be a huge factor in the way people feel about them.

Comments

[Ariella C]

Haley, I agree with you about Darcy's vanity. He makes it obvious that he wants others to keep away from him if they are not up to his social status. I think that is interesting about how people perceive them based on the way they think.

[Anna C.]

I really like the distinction you made between Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy, about one being vain and the other proud. Being vein is really what sets Darcy apart from everyone else, since i feel like everyone in the book is somewhat proud.

[PJ]

I have to disagree with the above... Darcy may come across as vain, but he is merely uncomfortable around new people. If he had attended a ball among high society unfamiliar to him, he would have acted the same way. Reserved people often come across as snobs...