Pride and Prejudice Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for Pride and Prejudice.
Pride and Prejudice Ending Explained: In early 19th century England, Mr and Mrs Bennet's five unmarried daughters vie for the affections of rich and eligible Mr Bingley and his status-conscious friend, Mr Darcy, who have moved into their neighbourhood. Directed by Robert Z. Leonard, this 1940 drama film stars Greer Garson (Elizabeth Bennet), alongside Laurence Olivier as Mr. Darcy, Mary Boland as Mrs. Bennet, Edna May Oliver as Lady Catherine de Bourgh. With a 6.9/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of Pride and Prejudice?
In early 19th century England, Mr and Mrs Bennet's five unmarried daughters vie for the affections of rich and eligible Mr Bingley and his status-conscious friend, Mr Darcy, who have moved into their neighbourhood. While Bingley takes an immediate liking to eldest daughter Jane, Darcy has difficulty adapting to local society and repeatedly clashes with second-eldest Elizabeth.
Robert Z. Leonard's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Greer Garson (Elizabeth Bennet)'s journey. While Bingley takes an immediate liking to eldest daughter Jane, Darcy has difficulty adapting to local society and repeatedly clashes with second-eldest Elizabeth.
How Does Greer Garson (Elizabeth Bennet)'s Story End?
- Greer Garson: Greer Garson's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Laurence Olivier (Mr. Darcy): Laurence Olivier's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Mary Boland (Mrs. Bennet): Mary Boland's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Pride and Prejudice Mean?
Pride and Prejudice's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Greer Garson may feel rushed. Robert Z. Leonard's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.