after Jane, who sees only good in everyone, has confessed, "I am sorry to say Mr. Wickham is by no means a respectable young man. I am afraid he has been very imprudent, and has deserved to lose Mr. Darcy's regard." Her lack of discernment precipitates her harsh refusal of Darcy's initial proposal, jeopardising unwisely her possible happiness with him. It is only when Elizabeth reads Darcy's letter that she is forced to face the truth, to acknowledge that she has been utterly wrong, and has completely misjudged Darcy. It is then that she admits, "And yet, I meant to be uncommonly clever in taking so decided a dislike to him, without any reason." [good.]After his monumental unveiling of the truth, Elizabeth's former dislike of Darcy is reversed, and after a few more obstacles (Lydia's engagement), [ironically brings them together] they reveal their mutual affection for each other, and are joined in a joyful union.Austen's portrayal of the heroine of this novel with her fallibilities and flawed judgement, do not simply add to the intrigues of the plot, but also reveal, ironically, that even the most astute studier of character can be mistaken and that inclinations must always be tempered with prudent judgement, for lasting happiness to ensue. Elizabeth's ill-founded accusation, "formed on mistaken premises" towards Darcy, and his initial brash criticism are testament to the necessity of prudent judgement and flexibility for a happy union. [but define "prudent": in reflecting in one's feelings and prejudices, not in considering one's mercenary interest]In contrast, Jane and Bingley's relationship proves that too much of prudent judgement can damage, most severely, the possibility of lasting happiness. The two characters are immediately charmed by each other at the Meryton assembly. Jane's prudence is revealed as she "who had been cautious in her praise of Mr. Bingley before, expressed to her sister how very much she admired him." Jan...
