At the end of her novel, Austen describes the double wedding between Bennett’s sisters. Elizabeth and Jane marry Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley. She shows how controversial marriage is. This is the logical end of her reflection on this social aspect.
Detailed answer:
Jane Austen’s novel Pride and Prejudice is an illustration of early progressive thought. The book was published in 1813, soon after the French Revolution. Liberalism was on its rise in Europe. But it did not consider changing women’s position in society. That is why Austen’s novel is now known as an early feminist piece, questioning the Regent Era’s norm.
The concept of marriage lies in the heart of the novel and affects all the characters’ lines. The union of Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy, in the first place, shows that a woman deserves happiness and love. Marriage does not have to be an economic act. That is another way Austen builds an opposition between Lydia and Elizabeth. The main character proves she loves Mr. Darcy – to her family and herself. Only afterward, she accepts another of his proposals. But this is only one side of the story.
Double weddings were typical in the Regent Era. The event was a financial move of the Bennett’s. The thing is that the reception falls on the bride’s family shoulders. Austen adds the economic aspect to the event as if all the previous drama was not enough.