It’s been 250 years since the birth of Jane Austen and the brilliance of her literary classics. From Pride and Prejudice to Sense and Sensibility, the romantic storylines are the baseline for so many modern-day novels, films and adaptations. Tropes like ‘enemies-to-lovers’ or ‘friends-to-lovers’ are very popular in the modern day. Tropes that you can find littered throughout Austen’s novels. But has this set the bar too high for finding a love interest?
Characters like Mr Darcy (Pride and Prejudice) or Mr Knightley (Emma) have been immortalised on our screens through popular film adaptations, further igniting a desire for a whirlwind love story. Austen’s novels fuel this hopeless romantic feeling, creating such high expectations when it comes to dating and relationships.
Mr Darcy, a man who at first encounter appeared to be proud and indifferent, in fact would do anything for the woman he loves. When he originally proposes to Elizabeth Bennet, she heavily rejects his intentions due to his actions and what she believes that he has done. He then dedicates his time to reversing any pain or anguish he has caused her and her family. What is admirable about the two of them is the fact that they both better themselves for their relationship, realising their flaws and growing as human beings. Their relationship is equal and open when they finally get together and it serves as a reminder of the power of love, no matter the time period.
But it is important to distinguish fact from fiction. The Regency Era was a period heavily restricted by gender and class. Finding a Mr Darcy would have been nearly impossible without being part of an affluent family. You would also need to be formally introduced at a societal event. Similar to a modern-day club, you were likely to encounter a match at a dance. But, be warned, being alone with someone without a chaperone could result in major scandal and arranged marriage. Not quite what you would get from going out clubbing on a Saturday night…
‘While the Regency Era was lacking choice, a love for Austen’s world is not the constraints of the era itself but an infatuation with the stories she creates.’
Personally, my love for Mr Darcy stems from a desire to be seen by my partner. To be understood and be loved no matter what. Mr Darcy yearns for Elizabeth, declares his love for her, respects her strong-mindedness and so much more. I would like my partner to be the same. For him to know what I like and dislike. For him to give thoughtful presents, think of me as much as I think of him. A relationship that is equal, where we are both equally obsessed and in love with one another. That is the wish.
Regency films and tv shows have further fuelled this desire to have a great love story. Season two of Bridgerton, with its exciting and passion-filled love story between Anthony Bridgerton and Kate Sharma, had me on the edge of my seat. The yearning and the stolen kisses, the dances and the storylines. It was all a perfect reminder of the allure of the Regency era. Aren’t we all just a sucker for an ‘enemies to lovers’ trope?
The Buccaneers is another great example, with a diverse range of storylines that have you longing for the passion and love represented in it. Based between New York and England, this tv show has love triangles and passionate declarations, capturing the essence of Jane Austen. Watching these shows plants new ideas in your mind, creating new wishes for a romantic encounter. Leaving you wondering why it is so hard to find a Mr Darcy in the modern world?
Nowadays, everything seems to be online. It is difficult to find a partner outside of this. One split-second decision on whether to swipe right or left defines your dating-life. You judge people on their looks and personality almost immediately but don’t know what they are like in real life. What’s more, now with the rise in A.I, it’s becoming more difficult to spot the real from the fake. Love and dating are becoming increasingly complicated.
Going back to the Regency Era, perhaps love and dating had more of an allure. You weren’t able to contact your significant other every day. It was through letters and dancing that love was born. At least that’s the case in Jane Austen’s world.
It is difficult to combine the desires and wishes from a fictional character into real life. But don’t let that stop you. There’s definitely a Mr Darcy or an Elizabeth Bennet waiting for you out there. You just have to look in the right places. While the Regency Era was lacking choice, a love for Austen’s world is not the constraints of the era itself but an infatuation with the stories she creates.
Featured image courtesy of Elaine Howlin via Unsplash. No changes have been made to this image. Image licence found here.
