Personally, I feel everyone even Jane Austen herself is a tad bit mean when it comes to the character of Mrs. Bennet and should shift some on that to Mr. Bennet. Like yes she's a silly, neurotic woman but can u like blame her?

Her husband failed to do anything for their children. He stopped being involved in their education probably around Mary's childhood, did not save or plan for the future of FIVE women at all, and not only that he's so unbothered by ANYTHING at all like Mr. Collins - the heir to his estate and fortune - stops by and he doesn't even tell his family?????? until he's about to arrive?????? Not only that it's kind of cruel the way he does it like haha u guys know how yall are women so u don't inherit shit? well, the dude that can come and turn u all out on ur asses - which is mostly my fault bc i didn't do shit to make sure u all are provided for once I'm gone - is about to arrive so hehe.

Like in what other way is Mrs. Bennet supposed to behave in that era where her daughter's futures were entirely dependent on the wealth of the man they marry. And honestly, i think Mrs. Bennet was almost too kind to Mr. Bennet I'd have been very bitter knowing that even tho we tried for a son - hence all the daughters - he still did nothing to ensure their financial security. Like these girls could have ended up destitute and it'd be entirely his fault. I always saw Mrs. Bennet as a mother who was just trying to do the best she could to look out for her daughters given the circumstances.