Throughout history, courtship and marriage have changed and influenced contemporary viewpoints. The plays Twelfth Night by Shakespeare, Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, and the novel High Fidelity by Nick Hornby all explore important moments in the evolution of courtship and marriage. These literary works contribute to current ideas about marriage and courtship. In Twelfth Night, women have limited options for choosing a spouse and are expected to love their husbands even if they do not desire them.
During Shakespeare’s era, gender inequality greatly influenced courtship and marriage. In a conversation, Toby states, “She will have nothing to do with the Count. She will not marry someone above her social status or surpassing her in wealth, age, or wit. I have heard her swear… she means it” (peg. 21). Toby is referring to Olav in this dialogue and reveals that she has no interest in marrying someone of higher rank. Olivia shares the same view as it would diminish her societal role and position within her household. Shakespeare portrays marriage and courtship as instances where women are treated as possessions acquired by men.
Men’s lack of regard for women stemmed from the belief that women should adhere to traditional behaviors. During that period, it was expected for women to comply with societal norms. Olivia admits, “I am sorry for my actions. I sent you a ring following the recent magical occurrence here, deceiving not only myself but also my servant and possibly even you. Now, I must face your harsh judgment as punishment for my dishonesty, which you were unaware of. What is your viewpoint? Have you not tarnished my reputation and fueled it with all the oppressive thoughts that can arise from a tyrannical heart?”
To be shown enough to receive, one must comprehend that my heart is concealed like a cypress, not a bosom. Therefore, permit me to listen to you (peg. 97). Olav is defying societal norms by pursuing a masculine role and exhibiting assertiveness. The notion of courtship and matrimony has undergone changes over time and has shaped contemporary viewpoints on this subject matter. The three books we have examined – Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, and Nick Hornby’s High Fidelity – each symbolize significant milestones in history that have impacted modern conceptions of marriage and courtship.
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austin depicts courtship and marriage as more applicable to contemporary society in comparison to Shakespearean era. The book showcases the idea that women now have the autonomy to select their own partners for love and marriage. This is exemplified through the characters of Elizabeth, Jane, and Lydia Bennett. Although Jane Bennett’s circumstances are more aligned with conventional Shakespearean courtship, where her parents, particularly her mother, have a significant influence in determining her choice of partner, Lydia embodies the changing dynamics of courtship and marriage that mirror present-day society.
Lydia made a choice in love that may not have been the right one, but she decided to listen to her heart and elope with Mr. Hickman. Elizabeth Bennett is not just the protagonist in Jane Student’s story, but also represents a shift in the traditional notion of women patiently waiting for men. Instead, she embodies the idea that women need to actively pursue their desired partners before they are claimed by someone else. Austin presents a fresh definition of marriage, where women have more influence in choosing their partners compared to previous eras, including Shakespearean times.
