Social Class

In "An Assembly Such As This," the most prevalent theme is that of social class. Social class dictates the interaction between characters and is the reason that Darcy tries to prevent his feelings for Elizabeth Bennet, as well as the reason that he tries to separate Bingley and Jane. At the assembly in Meryton, Darcy refuses to dance with anyone he does not know and he disdains Jane Bennet's mother as he sees her thoughts turn to matrimony as soon as Bingley begins dancing with Jane. The reason that George Wickham attempted to elope with Georgiana Darcy, rather than marry her legitimately, is that his poverty-stricken position would not allow it, regardless of his honorable or dishonorable intentions. Throughout the novel, Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst disdain their country neighbors, especially at the party at Lucas Lodge where the girls gather around to paint pottery, a hobby...