The Deleterious Effects of Pride and PrejudiceJane Austen's novel, Pride and Prejudice, illustrates that behavior is innate and, for better or worse, can be influenced by society. Austen also demonstrates that behavior is alterable by focusing on two aspects of behavior; prejudice and pride. The deleterious effects of prejudice and pride and the possibility of reform are exemplified in a story that focuses on the ideals, ceremonies, and customs of marriage. Austen's attempts to demonstrate conclusively that the essence of behavior is intrinsic to one's disposition, character and temperament. . He manages to establish this by describing the innate qualities in both Elizabeth and Darcy. Elizabeth has a natural sagacity; is able to examine situations, affairs and relationships intuitively and with remarkable insight. For example, in chapter four, when Elizabeth expresses her displeasure with the manners and apparent character of the Bingley sisters, Jane defends them but, "Elizabeth listened silently, but was not convinced; their behavior at the assembly was not been calculated to please generally, and with more quickness of observation and less suppleness of character than her sister, and with a judgment too unassailable from any concern for herself, she was very little disposed to approve of them," (Austen 12). Elizabeth's suspicions are ultimately confirmed when the two Bingley sisters betray Jane's kindness and attempt to unfairly dissuade their brother's affection. Elizabeth's discerning judgment is a product of her innate wisdom. Austen also highlights in Darcy the fact that behavior is intrinsically determined. Darcy's admirable generosity marks the positive aspect of his nature and is exemplified in several instances throughout the novel. Through a series of events, the reader learns that Darcy has willingly provided enough for Wickham, contrary to Wickham's defamatory claims. Darcy's generosity and genuine concern for others is once again confirmed by his unsolicited help in untangling Wickham and Lydia's imprudent affairs. Austen also indirectly states that behavior is subject to external influence and that any component of behavior can be cultivated. For example, Elizabeth becomes aware of Darcy's pride after hearing him respond to Bingley that "she is tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt me" (Austen 9). Elizabeth's prejudice is cultivated by her mother who states that, "...he is an extremely unpleasant and horrible man, not at all worth liking. So haughty and conceited that there was no way to stand him!" (Austen 10). Returning to the situation surrounding Wickham, we see that Elizabeth's prejudice towards Darcy is once again fueled by the defamatory comments Wickham makes towards her..