Pride and Prejudice, Chapter 3: The Bennet Sisters Meet Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy

The much-anticipated neighborhood ball finally brings the Bennet family face-to-face with Mr. Bingley and his party. Charming, sociable, and eager to dance, Bingley quickly makes a favorable impression, especially on Jane Bennet.In Chapter 3 of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, the evening also introduces the wealthy and handsome Mr. Darcy. His pride and refusal to dance with Elizabeth Bennet soon earn him a very different reputation, setting the stage for one of literature’s most famous relationships.Key topics:The first assembly ballJane Bennet and Mr. Bingley’s first meetingElizabeth Bennet meets Mr. DarcyDarcy’s infamous refusal to danceFirst impressions, pride, and social status