The dynamic process of comparing and finding connections between texts can enrich our understanding about universal values and how they change and mould over time. The comparative study between Jane Austens novel Pride and Prejudice (1813) and Fay Weldons text Letters to Alice (1984) provides the reader with links between the contexts of Regency England and the contemporary society to emphasise the ever-changing nature of values such as gender expectations and marriage while simultaneously showcasing timeless values through the importance of education.Pride and Prejudice presents marriage as a union not necessarily based solely on affection but rather as a tool used to propel ones economic status. Patriarchal values restricted a Regency womans role and ability for success outside of marriage seen in Austens ironic tone in the opening sentence, a single man in possession of good fortune, must be in want of a wife which foreshadows the wider significance of marriage in Austens time as not only a union of two people but something that could be advantageous for the entire family. This is perhaps most strongly highlighted through Lady Catherines dialogue that marriage is a matter of public interest. The concept that marital success was based on practicality and social stabilisation is shown through Mr. Collins proposal to Elizabeth which is supposedly right thing for every clergyman as he would inherit this estate. His marriage to Charlotte highlights the sacrifice of independence of most women in the period seen through her confident tone in happiness in marriage is entirely a matter of chance. However, Austen juxtaposes this relationship against the prudent marriage of Elizabeth and Darcy to demonstrate the importance of mutual respect and independence. These opposing depictions of relationships aid Austens subtle aim to criticise the Regency idea of marriage as simply a means of gaining wider social and economic connections.In contrast, through Letters to Alice, Weldons more egalitarian society allows her to examine the issues with marriage within Austens time and in doing so, provide readers with insight into the major shift in gender roles and expectations. As the context and times changed, the wave of feminism had increased a womans need and potential for individual success, as seen through the metaphorical statement success kicks away the stool of masochism which showcases the diminishing dependence on males for guidance and support as female roles become more accepted. This increased sense of independence is epitomised by Aunt Fay in her didactic overstatement to Alice, you will have decided to have no babies at all, suggesting Weldon as an antithesis to Regency ideals. Feminisms promotion of strong women with independent habits consequently evolved the prospect of marriage from a necessity to a choice. Aunt Fay also thinks back to Pride and Prejudice to consider parallels with her own society where rich landowners import Asian girls as wives. Here, the disdainful tone subtly displays how marriage as a means for survival is still a value that lives on. Weldons criticism of female roles in the past but praise for the modern achievement of women to search for individual success displays the continually growing and adapting relationship between the value of marriage and the times. Austen also guides her readers through promoting self-development and education in Pride and Prejudice, mainly through the need for moral and social awareness. The nineteenth century aristocratic society was characterised by social structure but the idea of the importance of education was one widely accepted. The knowledge of music, singing and drawing was seen as necessary to what Weldon describes in her text as an accomplished woman. Being educated morally was the basis of social acceptance during the time and females were expected to possess a certain something in regards to their behaviour. However, this expectation of proper etiquette and behaviour also extended to males as the consequences of an absence of this essential moral education are seen through Darcy who is characterised as the proudest, most disagreeable man in the world due to a lack of this public awareness. This is contrasted against Elizabeths self-evaluation where she lists herself as blind, partial, prejudiced, and absurd and this educated self-knowledge and introspection is the reason she is held in high regard despite not being very wealthy. Through presenting the societal expectations regarding moral education in the Regency period, Austen is able to highlight the importance of education and common etiquette.Weldon similarly encourages the need for education, this time however, mainly in regards to literature and individual development, rather than manners and morals. Aunt Fay encourages and aims to guide Alice towards good literature with its capital L in order to expose her to moral and intellectual guidance. The extended metaphor of the City of Invention is used to convince and teach Alice to swim against the stream of communal ideas and create something that has greater meaning. Weldon stresses the need for authors to be educated about literature through works of lowbrow fiction dont enlighten, they are unimportant. Eventually, however it is Alices neglect of these conventions that allows her to use her individuality and self-awareness to produce a potential world bestseller. Fay Weldons insights into good literature continues to show the importance of being educated but it is Alices success by disregarding these insights that, similar to Elizabeth, really emphasises the need for education in terms of self-knowledge and understanding.Hence, the comparative study between the two texts highlights the shifting and varying nature of contextual values such as marriage but also the values such as education that remain timeless despite major changes in society and culture.