Miss Bingley - Archetypes & Influences

Miss Bingley is an antagonist character in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, whose personality traits of arrogance, snobbery, and status-seeking may have been influenced by other literary works or historical figures. There are several possible literary and historical inspirations for Miss Bingley's character, including characters from literature like the Duchess of Berwick and historical figures such as Elizabeth Farnese. These potential influences on Miss Bingley can provide insight into her character and how she embodies larger societal themes in the novel.

One possible influence on Miss Bingley's character is the Duchess of Berwick in Oscar Wilde's play, Lady Windermere's Fan. Like Miss Bingley, the Duchess is a snobbish and status-seeking character who is obsessed with propriety and appearances. The two characters share similar personality traits, including arrogance, a love of gossip, and a disdain for those outside their social circle.

Another possible influence on Miss Bingley's character is Elizabeth Farnese, a Spanish queen known for her scheming and manipulative behavior. Like Farnese, Miss Bingley is focused on manipulating those around her for her own ends, highlighting the power dynamics of Georgian society. Both women use their social status as a tool for manipulation.