True, gentlewomen with little money had little choice in those days, and could not afford to be picky and demanding. I believe Eliz was shocked that Charlotte accepted Collins because it was impossible for a sensible, intelligent woman to respect and esteem Collins, not because she expected Charlotte to marry for romantic love. If he was a reasonably sensible man whom Charlotte liked well enough, Eliz would not have been shocked at Charlotte's acceptance, even if Charlotte was not in love with him. Some readers think Jane was too quick to immediately accept Bingley when he proposed after his long, unexplained absence. I've read modern fanfic in which Jane was offended with him when he came back, although she eventually forgives and accepts him after he explained about his earlier doubts as to her attachment and commitment -- but she needed proof that he was really committed and willing to work for their relationship. Modern Jane might act that way, but not Regency Jane.
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