Chapter 20 Practice Quiz — Pride and Prejudice
by Jane Austen — tap or click to flip
Practice Quiz: Chapter 20
How does Mr. Collins interpret Elizabeth's refusal of his proposal?
He believes it stems from her "bashful modesty and the genuine delicacy of her character," assuming that elegant females always refuse a first proposal to increase the man's desire.
What does Mrs. Bennet call Elizabeth after learning she refused Mr. Collins?
"A very headstrong, foolish girl" who "does not know her own interest."
How does Mr. Collins react when Mrs. Bennet describes Elizabeth as headstrong and foolish?
He reconsiders the match, saying that if she has "defects of temper," she would not contribute much to his happiness and perhaps it would be better not to force her into accepting him.
What does Mrs. Bennet demand when she rushes to Mr. Bennet in the library?
She demands he come immediately and make Elizabeth marry Mr. Collins, warning that if he does not act quickly, Collins will change his mind.
What is Mr. Bennet's famous verdict about Elizabeth and Mr. Collins?
"Your mother will never see you again if you do not marry Mr. Collins, and I will never see you again if you do."
What two "small favours" does Mr. Bennet request of Mrs. Bennet?
First, the free use of his understanding on the present occasion; and second, the free use of his room (the library).
How does Elizabeth react to her father's verdict?
She cannot help but smile at "such a conclusion of such a beginning," recognizing his ironic support for her refusal.
What efforts does Mrs. Bennet make after Mr. Bennet sides with Elizabeth?
She talks to Elizabeth "again and again," alternately coaxing and threatening her, and tries to secure Jane as an ally, but Jane declines to interfere.
How does Mr. Collins feel about Elizabeth's rejection privately?
His pride is hurt, but he suffers little otherwise. His regard for Elizabeth was "quite imaginary," and he thinks too well of himself to understand why she would refuse him.
Who brings the news of Mr. Collins's proposal to Charlotte Lucas?
Lydia, who flies to Charlotte in the vestibule and whispers the gossip gleefully, followed by Kitty who comes to share the same news.
What does Mrs. Bennet threaten regarding Elizabeth?
She threatens never to see Elizabeth again, never to speak to her, and warns that she will not be able to maintain Elizabeth after Mr. Bennet dies.
What does Mrs. Bennet blame for her suffering at the end of the chapter?
Her "poor nerves" and "nervous complaints." She laments that "those who do not complain are never pitied."
How does Mr. Collins formally end his courtship of Elizabeth?
He delivers a long speech about "resignation to inevitable evils," suggesting the blessing has begun to lose its value, and withdraws his pretensions to Elizabeth's favour.
Who stays behind to listen when Mrs. Bennet asks to speak privately with Mr. Collins?
Lydia, who is "determined to hear all she could," and Charlotte, who stays by the window "pretending not to hear."
What does Collins say about "resignation" in his withdrawal speech?
"Resignation is never so perfect as when the blessing denied begins to lose somewhat of its value in our estimation" -- suggesting he is already rationalizing Elizabeth's refusal.
What does this chapter foreshadow about Charlotte Lucas?
Charlotte's presence during the Collins drama, her quiet observation from the window, and her proximity to the newly available Mr. Collins foreshadow her own acceptance of his proposal in the next chapter.