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Character profile

Mr. William Collins

maleFirst seen chapter 12Last seen chapter 57

Cousin of Mr. Bennet, clergyman, heir to Longbourn entail, writes a deferential letter seeking to visit Longbourn. Collins engages in a lengthy, flattering conversation about Lady Catherine and challenges Mr. Bennet to backgammon His background, marriage plans, and interactions with the Bennet family are detailed, showing his aim to marry a Bennet daughter (first Jane, then Elizabeth) and his deference to Lady Catherine. Clergyman who arrives with his cousins, admires the drawing‑room, comments on Lady Catherine, and plays whist while being served by Mrs. Phillips. Mr. Collins inquires about attending the Netherfield ball, requests Elizabeth's hand for the first two dances, and subsequently proposes marriage to her, which she accepts. Collins attempts to address Darcy without introduction and delivers a long speech about Lady Catherine’s patronage. Collins proposes marriage to Elizabeth, is rejected, and outlines his reasons for marrying, inheritance details, and Lady Catherine's patronage. Mr. Collins discusses his proposal with Elizabeth and Mrs. Bennet, expresses willingness to withdraw his suit if she persists, apologizes for any disrespect, and reflects on his own pride and expectations in marriage. Displayed angry pride and resentful silence toward Elizabeth after his proposal, and announced he will remain at Longbourn until Saturday. Mr. Collins proposes to and marries Charlotte Lucas, obtaining consent from Sir William and Lady Lucas and planning to keep the match secret from the Bennet family for a time. Announces his engagement to Charlotte Lucas Mr. Collins is now married to Charlotte, preparing a reception for his bride and hopes to be the happiest man; he departs Longbourn with solemn farewells and promises to write a letter of thanks. Mr. Collins returns to Hertfordshire, stays with the Lucases, and marries Charlotte Lucas. Mr. Collins greets the party with formal civility, mentions Lady Catherine's forthcoming church attendance, and describes his garden tours. Mr. Collins hosts the party at Rosings, displaying triumph, instructs the guests on dress and timing, and sits at the bottom of the dinner table by Lady Catherine’s desire, praising the grandeur throughout the visit. Collins spends mornings driving Sir William, works in the garden, reads, writes, observes village life, reports to Lady Catherine, and manages household arrangements. Mr. Collins is mentioned as a co‑guardian of Miss Darcy alongside Colonel Fitzwilliam. Plans to send servant John with the Bennet sisters and urges Mrs. Collins to comply. Collins expresses gratitude to the Gardiners and emphasizes his connection to Rosings and Lady Catherine as a significant advantage. Mr. Collins writes a detailed letter to the Bennet family warning Elizabeth about Mr. Darcy's intentions and expressing his disapproval of Lydia's conduct. Mr. Collins receives Mr. Bennet’s letter about Elizabeth’s upcoming marriage.

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