Celebration of Scholars
Anne’s and the Elliot Family’s Ideals of Marriage in Persuasion
Name:
Ashley Gorman
Major: Data Science
Hometown: Mount Pleasant, WI
Faculty Sponsor: Paul Ulrich
Other Sponsors:
Type of research: Course project
Abstract
This work presents an analysis of two contrasting value systems depicted in Jane Austen’s novel Persuasion, exploring the characters’ differing attitudes regarding love and marriage. The paper ultimately posits that Anne Elliot prioritizes genuine love over an elevated social standing in her relationships, while her family largely believes in using marriage as an institution to improve their reputation. In this work, I first examine Anne’s short-lived engagement to Captain Frederick Wentworth by drawing on textual evidence to illustrate her reasons for ending their relationship. I then analyze Anne’s character growth over the course of the novel and discuss her decision to reconnect with Wentworth. Finally, I highlight multiple members of the Elliot family and discuss how each character’s view of Anne has changed by the novel’s conclusion. The paper incorporates quotations directly from Persuasion as well as close readings of relevant evidence, which I use to assert that Anne finds happiness by pursuing her own desires instead of acquiescing to her family’s wishes.
Submit date: Feb. 26, 2021, 4:59 p.m.