Final answer:
The question of whether Lydia is an imprudent, selfish young woman and not innocently led astray by Wickham can be supported or refuted based on the evidence from the text.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question of whether Lydia is an imprudent, selfish young woman and not innocently led astray by Wickham can be supported or refuted based on the evidence from the text.
To support this claim, one must analyze Lydia's actions and behavior throughout the story. On the other hand, to refute this claim, one can highlight the influence of Wickham on Lydia's decisions and her lack of agency.
Support: Lydia's actions can be seen as impulsive and selfish. For example, she elopes with Wickham without considering the consequences or the impact it will have on her family. She also prioritizes her own desires and pleasures over societal expectations and norms.
Refute: Lydia's actions can be attributed to her innocence and naivety. She is easily swayed by Wickham's charm and manipulations, and believes his false promises of love and a better life. Lydia's actions are a result of being misled and influenced by Wickham, rather than her own inherent character.