Without thinking highly either of men or of matrimony, marriage had always been her object: it was the only honorable provision for well educated young women of small fortune, and, however uncertain of giving happiness, must be their pleasantest preservative from want.
It is taken from Jane Austen's, Pride and Prejudice
Bobbie62
Favorite Answer
I feel that it is saying that despite not really being interested in men or marriage the subject felt she needed to marry in order to gain social acceptability and security in her life. It is something that she must do even if she is not sure she could be happy. It is more desirable than being destitute or ostracised from her social circle.
Samantha
Translation:
Even though she didn't particularly like men or the idea of marriage, marriage had always been the thing she strived towards. It was the only way for respectable young women (with little money) to be provided for.
sagittarius grl
i think it's deep and must be read a few times to really get its meaning. It means that this charater must get married, as it was proper for someone like her to do in those days.
Hαír Pεace Šmûrƒ Pεαce
Stupid. I mean, I understand the time period and all, I just think it's a stupid thing to think or say.