Relationship With Wife
Elizabeth suggests that the discontent in her father and mother's marriage is explained by:
Her father, captivated by youth and beauty, and that appearance of good humour which youth and beauty generally give, had married a woman whose weak understanding and illiberal mind had very early in their marriage put an end to all real affection for her. But Mr. Bennet was not of a disposition to seek comfort for the disappointment which his own imprudence had brought on, in any of those pleasures which too often console the unfortunate for their folly of their vice. He was fond of the country and of books; and from these tastes had arisen his principal enjoyments.
The quotation indicates the reasons for the apathy Mr. Bennet repeatedly exhibits towards his daughters' marital status. This position is a major point of friction between Mr. and Mrs. Bennet, for Mrs. Bennet is constantly fretting about potential suitors for her five single daughters.
Read more about this topic: Mr Bennet
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