The Darcy Effect: Why Two Centuries Later, Mr. Darcy is Still The Man →

The above article details a few of the reasons so many women still love Jane Austen’s irresistible character Mr. Darcy from Pride and Prejudice.

The first time I read Pride and Prejudice, I was young and foolish and thought Mr. Darcy was just another idealized male Superhunk with the usual characteristics of handsome, rich, completely unobtainable, and secretly in love with the main character.

This is why every good book is worth a second read (especially if you were thirteen the first time). Though Mr. Darcy comes in a very pleasant package, indeed (Colin Firth, Colin Firth, COLIN FIRTH), it is my opinion that the subtler aspects of Mr. Darcy’s character are what make him so universally adored by such a diverse group of women.

He stands his ground, but knows how to apologize; he’s wary of new acquaintances, but is incredibly loyal to anyone he befriends; he’s full of nonsensical preconceptions, but eager to change when he realizes his mistake; and perhaps most importantly, he doesn’t smother. He doesn’t stand in front of Elizabeth and bat away all her foes. He stands far back and watches silently. When he wishes to help, he takes action with subtlety and efficiency. [THIS IS WHAT YOU LACK, EDWARD CULLEN!]

And he takes a scolding well! I wish all men responded to horrid, unjustified tongue lashings with epic letters of Win that ooze hurt and love.

1 year ago  /  110 notes