Final answer:
George Wickham has known Fitzwilliam Darcy since childhood, as they share a complex history that began when their families were intimately connected; Wickham's father served as steward on the elder Mr. Darcy's estate.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question "How long has Wickham known Darcy?" is a reference to characters from Jane Austen's classic novel "Pride and Prejudice." In the novel, it is revealed that George Wickham has known Fitzwilliam Darcy since childhood, as Wickham's father was the steward for the elder Mr. Darcy's estate. Their detailed history unfolds in the narrative with Wickham sharing an intricate past and connection with the Darcy family that has led to considerable animosity between him and Mr. Darcy.
While the novel describes their complicated relationship that began in their youth, it is essential to comprehend the depth and consequences of their long-standing acquaintance. The interaction between these characters is pivotal to the plot, involving themes of deceit, social standing, and the consequences of past actions. Wickham's knowledge of Darcy is not just measured in years but is also characterized by the depth of their intertwined histories.