In Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen expresses her views of the pride and prejudice that exist in her society. Two major scenes in the story that display these are the two proposals made by Mr. Darcy. They scenes are key examples of pride and prejudice and are considered major events in the story.
             The first proposal takes place while Elizabeth is alone at the Collins' house in Kent. She is busy studying the letters she has received from Jane when Mr. Darcy bursts into the room and proposes to Elizabeth. Mr. Darcy's proposal of marriage isn't in any way romantic, or even complimentary. His pride is exposed more than the love he claims to feel. He confesses his love only after reminding her how much greater he is in rank and fortune, and how the marriage will be looked down upon. He declares, "In vain have I struggled. It will not do. My feelings will not be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you" (Austen 157). This scene illustrates the role pride plays in love and marriage. In this time, pride is of great importance and marrying someone who is less fortunate than him is considered outrageous.
             The scene also demonstrates the role of prejudices. Elizabeth's prejudices refrains her from even considering Mr. Darcy's proposal. Elizabeth has already made her decision about Mr. Darcy based on past occurrences. She tells him of her dislike of him based on his actions between Jane and Mr. Bingley and his ill will towards Mr. Wickham.
             The rejection takes a great toll on Mr. Darcy. It is considered to be the greatest strike in his pride he has ever experienced. Mr. Darcy feels the only way to regain his pride is to write a letter to Elizabeth that explains the truth behind the prejudices held against him by her.
             The second proposal and Elizabeth's acceptance is known to be the climax of the novel. This proposal takes place at Longbourn and is given in a very d...