By writing letters, one has time to refine impulsive thoughts to what he or she truly feels. Therefore letters are a more accurate representation of a person's thoughts. Throughout Pride and Prejudice, letters are used to offer insight into a character's true nature. Austen uses letters to present qualities in Mr. Collins by way of indirection. Her purpose is to build up prejudice in the reader, as a parallel to that of the characters in her book. Austen wants this to happen so that she can teach her readers of the dangers of prejudice, and a lighthearted, satirical manner.
Throughout Pride and Prejudice, Mr. Collins writes a series of letters. Each aids in revealing his personality and sincere thoughts. The first depiction of Mr. Collins occurs when Mr. Bennet receives a foolish letter from the Reverend Mr. Collins. In his letter, Mr. Collins gloats about his aquaintence to Lady Catherine and proposes a visit to Longbourn. " I have been distinguished by the Right Honourable Lady Catherine de Bourgh whose bounty and beneficence has preferred me to the valuable rectory of this parish, where it shall be by earnest endeavor to demean myself with grateful respect towards her Ladyship- (Austen, 42). The reader quickly learns of this man's nature because of the contents of his letter. Austen portrays Mr. Collins" persona to be immodest and arrogant. The reader immediately gets a sense of superiority towards this annoying and foolish character, whom they have not even yet encountered in the novel. Austen uses this to warn her readers of the dangers of prejudice and their tendency to bigotry and discrimination. .
Austen's uses the strategy of presenting the qualities of a person by way of indirection. The letters written by Mr. Collins prepares the reader to dislike him prior to his arrival. Without even knowing this character, his personality is learned pompous, pretentious, and proud through his letter.
