u/Last-Law9988

I have been thinking about Pride and Prejudice and I keep wondering how much of Darcys appeal comes from his actual character and how much comes from his development over the course of the story. At the beginning he comes across as proud and distant and not particularly likeable but later we see a very different side of him that makes it easier to admire him. What I find interesting is whether that later version of him was always there and just hidden by his behaviour or if he genuinely changes in a meaningful way because of his experiences and especially because of Elizabeths influence. If he was always capable of being kind and self aware then it makes his early actions feel more frustrating. But if he truly grows into that person then it makes his arc feel more earned and satisfying. I am not sure which interpretation I agree with more because both seem to fit in different ways. Do you think Darcy is admired more for his growth or for the person he was underneath everything from the start....