In the novel Pride and Prejudice, how do past events affect Darcy?

Question

How do these past events affect, positively or negatively, Darcy's present actions or values? And how does this relationship contribute to the meaning of the novel?

Answer 1

Darcy states himself, towards the end of the novel when he and Elizabeth finally proclaim their love for each other, that he was raised with the best of intentions but without much guidance (his mother deceased, father too busy/ill) was left to find his way through pride & conceit.  

He had to grow up quickly with the death of his mother as he would assume a pseudo guardianship of his sister- at least, he was the primary role model to her.  He was able to teach her good principles by his own example.  

I also think that he became a very guarded, private being do to the death of his mother.  He was at a very difficult stage in his development and it would have forced him to retreat into himself, rather than explore the pain and grief that he was feeling.  The pressure to set a good example for Georgianna would have been overwhelming.

Good luck and happy reading!

Answer 2

Wickham's almost elopement with Georgianna lead to his actions with Elizabeth. I'm not going to give you more than that, right the rest by yourself.