“Opposites attract” may be a modern adage, but the concept has been present in many incarnations throughout history. In Chinese philosophy, yin and yang are presented as opposing dynamics. To understand one, you must know the other. One of the most eloquent interpretations is the philosophy of “Concordia Discors,” or discordant harmony. According to this philosophy, the universe is made up of opposing entities. The universe, in seeking balance, must therefore couple opposing entities to create balance. In her novel Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen incorporates this philosophy into a social commentary in which an entire society is obsessed with coupling. In its four most notable characters, Elizabeth Bennet, Jane Bennet, Fitzwilliam Darcy and Charles Bingley, there are very contrasting temperaments. Yet, by observing the interactions between these characters, Austen reveals an underlying harmony in their relationships. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay In the beginning, Austen highlights the differences between sisters Jane and Elizabeth through comparisons of temperament. These differences become clear when both characters remark on the same event, as their opinions and personalities present strikingly different dynamics. Having both attended a ball, Jane and Elizabeth compare the impressions of the guests, including Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley. Immediately, a disparity appears between the two. Jane, who "never sees a fault in anyone", is surprised to have received the compliment of being asked to dance twice by Mr. Bingley. Elizabeth, however, was not surprised. “Compliments always surprise you, but never me,” she remarks. This is partly due to Elizabeth's "quickness" (2), as her father puts it. The dynamic put forward by Elizabeth is analytical in nature, while Jane's is more receptive and open. “I would like not to censor anyone hastily, but I always say what I think,” says Jane (11). However, Elizabeth accuses Jane of “affectation of frankness” (11). Elizabeth quickly notices “the follies and absurdities of others” (11). Elizabeth's personality can seem penetrating and critical. Austen observes that this characteristic is not counterbalanced by “attention to itself” (11). Austen understands that a friendship is greater than the sum of its parts. His characters work best in the presence of someone who has what they individually lack. Elizabeth thus compensates for Jane's lack of insight. Jane compensates for Elizabeth's overtly analytical mindset. Austen illustrates a parallel relationship in that of Darcy and Bingley. The friendship is strong “despite great opposition of character” (12), just like that between Jane and Elizabeth. Bingley's temperament exhibits "openness" and "ductility of humor" (12). Shortly after arriving at the ball, "Bingley had made the acquaintance of all the principal people, had danced every dance, was furious that the ball was closing so early" (7), and was planning to reside in town. “No disposition could offer a greater contrast” (12) with Darcy’s, Austen observes. Although "intelligent", Darcy is "haughty, reserved and fussy". Unlike his friend, he refuses to dance and resigns himself to making tapestry. When he is asked to dance with Elizabeth, he rejects her as "not beautiful enough" (8). This further illustrates the divide. Darcy gives the complete opposite of the compliment Bingley gives Jane. Bingley is presented as a social butterfly, "sure to be.