Example Of Ironic Communication In Pride And Prejudice

One of the best examples of ironic communication in the novel Pride and Prejudice was Mr. Collins’ proposal to Elizabeth. The pride and wit of both characters impact their verbal disagreements and ironic communication. The word choice used by Collins in his proposal shows his sense of entitlement, which clashes with Elizabeth’s pride and stubborn personality. He begins his proposal to Elizabeth by stating that her modesty “so far from doing you any disservice, rather adds to your other perfections.” This is an example of ironic communication because he says that modesty is a virtue, and that it makes Elizabeth a better woman for him. The irony stems from the fact that Mr. Collins is the opposite of Elizabeth in this regard. He is not modest, …show more content…
This is ironic because he had just described his reasons for proposal as induced and sped up by Lady Catherine’s messages to him. It contrasts his earlier points, which is why it is interesting he mentions it immediately following them. This situation evokes the reader to wonder if Collins knows what Elizabeth thinks about his propsal. Collins’ frequent self praise and Elizabeth’s lack of acceptance to him show the ironic communication during this portion of the …show more content…
The time period and standards of marriage would go against Mr. Collins claim, and the wit and confidence of Elizabeth is sure to let him know of it. “Your hope is a rather extraordinary one after my declaration,” she responded. Her sense of pride and unwillingness to go with societal norms are a major reason in which she is engaged in this verbal match with Collins. His blindness and inability to accept her rejection also cause this portion to be full of ironic communication. “Really, Mr. Collins…. You puzzle me exceedingly,” claims Elizabeth. This comes after Mr. Collins again tries to tell Lizzy that she wishes they be married, after her rejection was clearly