Pride and Prejudice Theme of Family

We all have families that embarrass us to some extent, but the Bennet family takes it to a whole new level, creating endless problems for the two eldest Bennet daughters. Like them, love them, or hate them, though, you can't escape family in Pride and Prejudice. Worse, your family's behavior reflects upon you. If your sister runs off with a scoundrel, society will hold you in less esteem. Conversely, if your sister marries well, society will hold you in better esteem. Family in Pride and Prejudice, therefore, affects your opportunities and life chances in a very real way.

1. Is Mrs. Bennet a good mother? Yes? No? Sort of? Why?
2. Is Mr. Bennet a good father?
3. Compare the Bennets to other parenting models in the novel. How do they stack up against the Lucases? Against Lady de Bourgh?
4. How much do the actions of parents ripple through the lives of their children? How much do the characters expect them to? Do young characters think about the effects their parents are having on them? Why or why not?
5. How does Elizabeth's family connection to the Gardiners impact her?

Mr. and Mrs. Bennet are bad parents, but they do love their children.

In the novel, young people are shown to be "raised" by friends much more than by their parents.