The Bennet family is agog at news of a new tenant at Netherfield Hall. They meet Bingley, his sisters and friend Darcy at a ball; where Bingley is attracted to Jane but Darcy considers the entire gathering beneath him.
Mr Bennet's estranged cousin, Mr Collins, writes to announce his imminent visit to Longbourn, the house he will inherit on Mr Bennet's death. Mrs Bennet has high hopes that he will propose to one of her daughters and expects also that Jane will soon be engaged to Mr Bingley.
Elizabeth receives an astounding piece of news and Jane's sweet nature is put to the test when she hears that Bingley and his sisters have left Netherfield Park. All Mrs Bennet's hopes seem dashed. Elizabeth is forced to visit her cousin, Mr Collins, and his new wife in Kent, where she is finally introduced to the formidable Lady Catherine de Bourgh.
Rejected by Elizabeth, Darcy returns to Rosings Park and writes to her, revealing the truth about Wickham's character.
Darcy is pleased to introduce Elizabeth to his sister, Georgiana, and to welcome her and her aunt and uncle to Pemberley. In spite of Miss Bingley's best efforts, their relationship is growing warmer, until Elizabeth receives a piece of distressing news from Longbourn.
Mrs Bennet is delighted to have one of her daughters married at last. Elizabeth sees Wickham in his true colours when she meets him again after his elopement. There is great excitement in the neighbourhood when Bingley returns to Netherfield, bringing Darcy with him.