Lexical Patterns of Marriage Discourse in Jane Austen’s Novels: A Corpus-Assisted Concordance Analysis

Abstract

This study examines the portrayal of marriage in Jane Austen’s six major novels through a concordance-based linguistic analysis. Focusing on the frequency and contextual usage of key terms such as marriage, matrimony, wedding, and material, the research explores how these lexical choices reflect underlying social and cultural attitudes. The analysis reveals the thematic connections between marriage and issues of financial security, social mobility, and gendered expectations. By integrating quantitative data with qualitative analysis, the study constructs a nuanced narrative that balances the romantic ideals associated with marriage against the pragmatic realities of 19th-century England. The findings also suggest that Austen critically engages with materialism and interrogates self-destructive societal norms. Her focus extends beyond social complexities to a profound exploration of the human condition. This study highlights Austen’s subtle critique of the institution of marriage, both at the personal and societal levels.

Keywords: Marriage, Matrimony, Wedding, Social stratification, Financial security, Social mobility, Material, Emotions, Expectations.