The Humiliation of Elizabeth Bennet
by Susan Fraiman
Thesis
Elizabeth’s goes from an outspoken social critic to being devoid of judgment.
Mr. Bennet
- authority in words
- Freudian "masculinity complex"
- "surrogate son"
- Batallie's gift of "flesh"
Mr. Darcey
- prideful "Father by virtue"
- 2 Struggles against Elizabeth
- Lydia Wickham fiasco
- Elizabeth's vanity
Validity
Disagreed: sexual tension of father and daughter
Reader Response
It provides clarity on the sexism and revealed the complexity of Mr. Bennet. It contains literary value to a student, yet represent controversial ideas.