Collins: Comic Relief or Literature's Worst Nightmare?

Collins is a laughable character based on the underline message that the majority of Austens characters are products of their society. Austen uses satire to make them seem less diabolical and more ignorant. The reader is more likely to laugh along with and forgive the absurdities of a character like Collins because he is so outrageous and self-involved. The reader is more likely to pity Mr. Collins than think he's a nightmare because he is so ignorant.