Meaning:
The quote "Good-humoured, unaffected girls, will not do for a man who has been used to sensible women. They are two distinct orders of being." is attributed to Jane Austen, a renowned English writer known for her keen observations of social dynamics and relationships in the 18th and early 19th centuries. This quote, like much of Austen's work, explores the complexities of human behavior and the intricacies of romantic relationships.
In this quote, Austen seems to be drawing a distinction between two types of women: those who are good-humored and unaffected, and those who are sensible. The implication is that a man who is accustomed to the company of sensible women may find it challenging to be with someone who is merely good-humored and unaffected. This speaks to the idea that different individuals have different expectations and preferences when it comes to romantic partners, and that compatibility is not solely based on superficial qualities.
Austen's novels often revolve around the themes of courtship, marriage, and social status, and her characters are used to illustrate the complexities of human nature and the challenges of navigating societal expectations. In "Pride and Prejudice," for example, the protagonist Elizabeth Bennet is portrayed as a sensible and independent woman who challenges the norms of her time, while her sister Lydia is depicted as more frivolous and prone to impulsive behavior. The contrast between these characters reflects the tension between different approaches to womanhood and romance that Austen explores in her works.
The quote also touches on the idea of personal growth and evolution in relationships. It suggests that a man who has been accustomed to the company of sensible women may have developed certain expectations and standards that make it difficult for him to connect with women who do not meet those criteria. This speaks to the idea that individuals can be shaped by their past experiences and that these experiences can influence their future relationships.
Furthermore, the quote hints at the notion that individuals have different "orders of being," or fundamental characteristics that define their personalities and behaviors. This idea aligns with Austen's exploration of the complexities of human nature and the ways in which individuals are shaped by their upbringing, social environment, and personal experiences.
In conclusion, Jane Austen's quote "Good-humoured, unaffected girls, will not do for a man who has been used to sensible women. They are two distinct orders of being" reflects her astute observations about the complexities of romantic relationships and the different expectations and preferences that individuals may have when seeking a partner. The quote also underscores Austen's exploration of the tension between different approaches to womanhood and the ways in which individuals are shaped by their past experiences and fundamental characteristics.