It’s always interesting hearing how a book hits other people. My read of Darcy is very different. I read him as being an introvert with a bit of a pride issue, but an otherwise outstanding character and a noble heart. He was also willing to face his faults in order to win the regard of a woman he loved (a very real motivator for many men). Indeed, it really made me feel like Austin understood men better than I would have guessed.

My guess is both couples would do very well, although they probably only visit in doses as the Darcy’s probably find the Bingley’s rather exhausting, while the other way around the Darcy’s are found boring. They still admire one another’s qualities though and love one another (e.g. several passages where Lizzie refers to Jane as “too good” and admires her ability to see the best in everyone)

The Wickham’s though, I agree, would have been pretty miserable.