Ah, Mr. Philips! While not a central figure in "Pride and Prejudice," he certainly adds a touch of earthy humor and social commentary to the story.
Physical Appearance:
Unfortunately, Jane Austen doesn't provide a specific physical description of Mr. Philips. However, based on his social standing and profession (an attorney), we can infer that he:
- Dresses and behaves according to the middle class of the time, likely more comfortably than Mr. Bennet but not reaching the Bingley or Darcy level of elegance.
- May be portly, as he's described as "breathing port wine" during the Meryton assembly.
- Has a generally jovial and friendly demeanor, as he enjoys socializing and gossip.
Character Description and Analysis:
- A successful attorney, indicating intelligence and business acumen.
- Proud of his profession and social standing, despite not belonging to the upper class.
- A loyal and supportive husband to Mrs. Philips, though their interactions sometimes border on playful bickering.
- Seen by some as "vulgar" by characters like the Bingley sisters, highlighting the class prejudices of the time.
- Provides Elizabeth with valuable insights into Mr. Collins's character and motivations, helping her see through his obsequiousness.
Character Mentions:
- Frequently visits and interacts with the Bennets, particularly Mrs. Philips and Lydia.
- Hosts a lively party at his home in Meryton, attended by many characters from the novel.
- Provides comic relief through his boisterous personality and blunt observations.
Quotations:
- Though lacking direct dialogue, Mr. Philips contributes to the novel's humor through his actions and reactions. For example, when Lydia and Kitty return from Netherfield, he exclaims, "What, Lydia back so soon? Well, Lydia Bennet, glad to see you." This showcases his jovial nature and fondness for gossip.
Additional Background:
- Mr. Philips represents the rising middle class of the Regency era, whose ambitions and values sometimes clashed with the established gentry.
- His inclusion in the story adds depth and texture to the social landscape of Meryton, demonstrating the interconnectedness of different classes in the community.
