Bingley Looked Quote by Jane Austen
““Mr. Bingley was good-looking and gentlemanlike; he had a pleasant countenance, and easy, unaffected manners. His sisters were fine women, with an air of decided fashion. His brother-in-law, Mr. Hurst, merely looked the gentleman; but his friend Mr. Darcy soon drew the attention of the room by his fine, tall person, handsome features, noble mien, and the report which was in general circulation within five minutes after his entrance, of his having ten thousand a year. The gentlemen pronounced him to be a fine figure of a man, the ladies declared he was much handsomer than Mr. Bingley, and he was looked at with great admiration for about half the evening, till his manners gave a disgust which turned the tide of his popularity; for he was discovered to be proud; to be above his company, and above being pleased; and not all his large estate in Derbyshire could then save him from having a most forbidding, disagreeable countenance, and being unworthy to be compared with his friend.””
About This Quote
Initial attraction based on appearance and wealth can quickly fade when pride and condescension become evident, revealing true character.
In simple terms: Looks and money impress, but arrogance repels.
Key Takeaway
Superficial charm masks deeper flaws.
Themes
social perception
pride
class
first impressions
Mood
ironic
cautious
Type
literary observation
character analysis
When to use this quote
- courtship gatherings
- business networking events
- political receptions
Key Concepts
authenticity
humility
Practical Applications
- focus on genuine courtesy
- avoid flaunting wealth
Questions to Reflect On
- How does pride affect long‑term relationships?
- Can wealth ever compensate for a lack of empathy?
A Different Perspective
Some may argue that status can outweigh personality in certain societies, but lasting respect still requires humility.
![“Everybody is taken in at some period or another. [...] In marriage especially. [...] There is not one in a hundred of either sex, who is not taken in when they marry. Look where I will, I see that it is so; and I feel that it must be so, when I consider that it is, of all transactions, the one in…” quote by Jane Austen](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/37a/jane-austen-39_marriage_everybody-is-taken-in-at-some-period-or_7175.jpg)
