Question

In what sense can Mr. Collins be considered a comical character? What do you think Austen is saying about the rules of social behavior by including Mr. Collins in this story?

A) Mr. Collins is comical due to his constant serious demeanor.
B) Mr. Collins is comical because of his rigid adherence to social conventions.
C) Mr. Collins is comical because he is a practical joker.
D) Austen uses Mr. Collins to critique the absurdity of social expectations and hierarchy.

Answer 1

Mr. Collins is a comical character because of his adherence to social conventions. Austen critiques social expectations and hierarchy through his character.

Step-by-step explanation:

Mr. Collins can be considered a comical character in Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen because of his rigid adherence to social conventions. His exaggerated seriousness and pompous behavior make him a source of amusement throughout the novel. By including Mr. Collins in the story, Austen is critiquing the absurdity of social expectations and hierarchy. She uses his character to expose the ridiculousness of valuing social status above genuine character and virtue.