Question

Why is Wickham not at Netherfield ball?

A) He was not invited.
B) He is attending another event.
C) He is ill.
D) He is avoiding Mr. Darcy.

Answer 1

Wickham avoids the Netherfield ball to prevent an encounter with Mr. Darcy, due to their antagonistic history.

Step-by-step explanation:

The character George Wickham is not present at the Netherfield ball in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice because he is avoiding Mr. Darcy. Wickham, who has a contentious history with Mr. Darcy, chooses not to attend the ball to avoid an uncomfortable encounter.

This decision is influenced by the animosity between the two men, which stems from Darcy's knowledge of Wickham's unsavory character and Wickham's resentment over past grievances involving Darcy's family.