Darcy insults Elizabeth while proposing by making derogatory remarks about her family and social position. He starts by acknowledging his love for her but immediately follows it up with comments that are critical and insulting.
One of the main insults Darcy directs towards Elizabeth is his criticism of her family. He refers to her mother as “a woman of mean understanding, little information, and uncertain temper,” implying that she lacks intelligence and is emotionally unstable. He also describes her younger sisters as “vulgar” and lacking in proper manners and morals. These remarks not only insult Elizabeth’s immediate family but also indirectly criticize Elizabeth herself, as she is a product of her family.
Furthermore, Darcy insults Elizabeth’s social position by suggesting that she is below him in status. He states that his feelings for her were a “constant source of vexation,” implying that his attraction to her is an inconvenience because she does not meet the social expectations of a suitable match for someone of his standing. Darcy also comments that her connections are “altogether beneath him,” insinuating that her social circle is inferior.
Moreover, Darcy insults Elizabeth’s appearance by saying that she is “not handsome enough to tempt” him. While this may seem like a minor insult compared to the previous ones, it still belittles Elizabeth’s physical appearance and implies that her looks are not worthy of his desire or affection.
Darcy’s insulting remarks about Elizabeth’s family, social position, and physical appearance during his proposal display his arrogance, pride, and prejudice. These insults deeply hurt Elizabeth’s feelings and contribute to her immediate rejection of his proposal.