Mr Collins

1st introduced through the epistolary method of a letter-pal

‘there is a mixture of servility and self-importance in his letter, which promises well.’

Prejudicially concludes Collins to be narcissitic and pompous-emphasised by sibilance of "servility" and "self-importance"-harsh tone of the "s" conveys his distaste.

"promises" connotes a sense of promise on Austen's behalf that Collins will live up to this prejudicial conclusion

Collins' self proclaimed position as a ladies man, acts in stark contrast with the reality of his sickeningly obseqious and sycophantic character.

"These are the kind of little delicate compliments that are always acceptable to ladies"

"acceptable" conveys Collins' view of himself as a conossieur of womanly affection whilst "always" reveals his pride and slight pomposity with which he delivers and adheres to this belief.

Proving his unrealistic view on womanly desires and his stiff flirtations ineffectiveness on the sister's, Lizzy, who often finds humour in all things ridiculous, entertains his ridicolousness"Believe me, no one would suspect your manners to be rehearsed." Lizzy's trademark use of wry humour and irony reflect her mock flattery as she makes a mockery of the unwary Collins.

This may reflect Austens' unsympathetic view of clergmen as Lizzy acts as her moral mouthpiece. Austen's father was a Clergyman, so she would have likely spent much of her life surrounded by clergymen, this may be a portryal of their concealed absurdity in her mind.

Throughout the novel, Collins upholds, at some times an almost childish fixation on Lady C.