Read the excerpt from Chapter 29 of Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. The dinner was exceedingly handsome, and there were all the servants and all the articles of plate which Mr. Collins had promised; and, as he had likewise foretold, he took his seat at the bottom of the table, by her ladyship’s desire, and looked as if he felt that life could furnish nothing greater. He carved, and ate, and praised with delighted alacrity; and every dish was commended, first by him and then by Sir William, who was now enough recovered to echo whatever his son-in-law said, in a manner which Elizabeth wondered Lady Catherine could bear. But Lady Catherine seemed gratified by their excessive admiration, and gave most gracious smiles, especially when any dish on the table proved a novelty to them. The party did not supply much conversation. Elizabeth was ready to speak whenever there was an opening, but she was seated between Charlotte and Miss de Bourgh—the former of whom was engaged in listening to Lady Catherine, and the latter said not a word to her all dinner-time.

How does the social atmosphere of the dinner party affect the characters?

Consideration of Lady Catherine is at the center of the guests’ actions and reactions.
The food is more important than the conversation for most of the guests.
The elaborate and unusual meal makes most of the guests uncomfortable.
Conversation between guests is eased by Lady Catherine’s generosity and good spirit