Historical Background

• An entail was often put on the property of wealthy families in the 19th century. This meant that only

a male heir could inherit the property, thus keeping the family estate intact. For the Bennet family, the

entail meant that they would be homeless and penniless after Mr Bennet’s death, and Mr Collins would

inherit everything.

• Money and marriage were of great importance in the 19th century. Women achieved financial security

through marriage. In order for a young girl to marry well, she needed to have a fortune of at least

£10,000. At that time, there was a shortage of men due to the Napoleonic Wars and eligible young

bachelors could shop for the girl with the largest fortune. In this marriage market, the Bennet girls would

have had low standing because they had neither property nor fortune.

• Employment for women in Jane Austen’s time was very limited. Middle-class girls could only work as a

governess or a lady’s companion. These jobs paid low wages and didn’t provide long-term security.

• Good manners were very important in the 19th century. A young girl had to behave according to the

social rules. Inappropriate behaviour could lead to a bad reputation.

• Social events such as parties and dances were very common in the 19th century. At that time, it was

considered improper for a young woman to travel alone or go out socially on her own, so these events

provided young people with an opportunity to mix.

• A guardian was legally responsible for the finances and welfare of an orphan. Normally, a guardian was

a family member, such as a brother, uncle or cousin. The guardian had the same authority as a parent. An

orphan girl could only marry with her guardian’s permission.

• Health was problematic in the 19th century. As there was no penicillin or aspirin, serious attention was

paid to coughs and colds, which in those days were considered dangerous.

• Transport in the 19th century was very different from today. The upper class had horses and carriages.

This was very expensive, so walking was common amongst the lower and middle classes.