Elizabeth remains at Netherfield while Jane recuperates. She notes that Caroline Bingley flirts with Mr. Darcy, but he appears uninterested in her. In fact, he seems increasingly intrigued by Elizabeth’s personality and her ideas. He admits to himself his growing interest in her but is aware that his interest is limited because of her family’s lower social status.
In this chapter, Caroline’s aggressive pursuit of Darcy becomes almost comic in its desperation. Her scheming and snobbishness serve only to cast Elizabeth as a refreshing presence for Darcy. His appreciation for Elizabeth also serves to make Darcy a more likable and sympathetic character. He is not fooled by Caroline Bingley’s self-serving comments; instead, he admires Elizabeth’s original personality and independent spirit. Once again, through her calculated actions, Caroline has perhaps caused the opposite of what she intended.
