Plot Summary
Chapter 23 of Pride and Prejudice opens with Sir William Lucas arriving at Longbourn to announce Charlotte's engagement to Mr. Collins. The Bennet family reacts with disbelief: Mrs. Bennet insists he must be mistaken, and Lydia blurts out that Mr. Collins was supposed to marry Lizzy. Elizabeth, already aware of the engagement through Charlotte, steps forward to confirm the news and offers polite congratulations, joined by Jane.
Mrs. Bennet's Fury
Once Sir William departs, Mrs. Bennet's feelings erupt. She cycles through disbelief, certainty that Collins has been deceived, predictions that the couple will never be happy, and hope the match will be broken off. She ultimately concludes that Elizabeth is the real cause of the mischief and that she herself has been "barbarously misused." Her resentment lasts weeks, and it takes months before she can forgive her daughter or be civil to the Lucases.
Contrasting Reactions
Mr. Bennet takes sardonic amusement in the situation, declaring himself gratified to discover that Charlotte Lucas is "as foolish as his wife, and more foolish than his daughter." Jane is mildly surprised but wishes the couple well. Kitty and Lydia are indifferent since Collins is merely a clergyman. Lady Lucas, meanwhile, delights in visiting Longbourn to boast about her daughter's advantageous match.
Elizabeth and Charlotte's Friendship Fractures
A painful restraint falls between Elizabeth and Charlotte. Elizabeth feels that genuine confidence between them can never be restored. She turns with renewed affection to Jane, whose happiness is now threatened by Bingley's continued absence from Netherfield. Reports circulate in Meryton that Bingley will not return for the winter.
Collins Returns and Mrs. Bennet's Jealousy
Mr. Collins writes to announce his happiness and his plan to return to Longbourn on Monday fortnight, noting that Lady Catherine heartily approves the match. His return is no longer welcome to Mrs. Bennet, who resents his presence and views Charlotte as a rival who will one day take possession of Longbourn. The chapter closes with a memorable exchange between Mr. and Mrs. Bennet about the entail, in which she laments Charlotte becoming mistress of their house and he dryly suggests they "hope for better things" and "flatter ourselves that I may be the survivor."