A friendly knight whose love of polished sociability leads him to press Darcy and Elizabeth toward a dance.
Sir William Lucas is the former Meryton tradesman and mayor whose knighthood led him to settle at Lucas Lodge and devote himself to civil attention. At a large party in his home, he praises dancing as a refinement of polished society and warmly observes Mr. Bingley's performance. Darcy's answers—first that every savage can dance, then that he avoids dancing even at St. James's—do not diminish Sir William's courteous persistence.
Seeing Elizabeth Bennet approach, he attempts a gallant social intervention by taking her hand and presenting her to Darcy as a desirable partner. Darcy is willing, but Elizabeth immediately withdraws and refuses. Sir William continues to praise both her dancing and Darcy's complaisance, without overcoming her determination.
The text does not describe his age, face, hair, complexion, build, or dress.
He is the Lucas patriarch and a well-meaning promoter of social connection between Darcy and Elizabeth.