Language In Clarissa, Evelina And Pride And Prejudice

prospect for bride-seeking men. The dairy house becomes
a disturbing development for the men in her family when
they consider Clarissa's marriage-ability. For though
the dairy house would certainly make her more desirable,
it would also make her independent. Mr Symmes and Mr
Mullins both sought Clarissa's hand. Her brother,
encouraged by their suits, which came before her
inheritance of the dairy house, became more patient with
her even after her inheritance and what he considered her
unruly behavior, knowing there would be more men like
Symmes and Mullins, of the same caliber and higher,
offering suit. He wants to pick a husband for his sister
from among those most profitable for his family and for
his own future aspirations (L4 51). He wants the power
to approve or disapprove her match. He does not want
that power in his sister's hands, or in his father's.
Again, Clarissa confesses to Anna the power shift in her
family, consulting James, Jr., for everything:
'How will my son, how will my nephew, take this
or that measure? What will he say to it? Let
us consult him about it,' are the references
always previous to every resolution taken by
his superiors, whose will ought to be his.
Well may he expect to be treated with his