Persuasion

Synopsis

A beautifully designed hardback gift edition with gold edging

In her last completed novel, Jane Austen revisits the theme of mischance and misunderstanding along the road to happiness. Seven years after she was persuaded to break off their engagement, Anne Elliot is unexpectedly reacquainted with Captain Frederick Wentworth. Anne is still in love with Wentworth, but will the captain be able to forgive her?

Summary

Chapter 1:

* Summary: The novel opens with Anne Elliot, a 27-year-old woman who has been persuading herself for years that she should not regret breaking off her engagement to Frederick Wentworth eight years earlier.
* Real Example: Anne's self-persuasion manifests in her constantly reminding herself of Wentworth's youthful imprudence and her own financial vulnerability.

Chapter 2:

* Summary: Anne's brother, William, persuades her to visit their ailing father, Sir Walter, in Bath.
* Real Example: William's persuasion is based on his belief that Anne can improve Sir Walter's spirits and the family's financial situation.

Chapter 3:

* Summary: In Bath, Anne encounters Wentworth again, who is now a successful naval captain.
* Real Example: Wentworth's presence triggers a resurgence of Anne's feelings for him, which she had tried to suppress.

Chapter 4:

* Summary: Lady Russell, Anne's former governess and close friend, discourages her from rekindling her relationship with Wentworth.
* Real Example: Lady Russell's persuasion stems from her belief that Wentworth's social status is beneath Anne's and that their past would make for an unsuitable marriage.

Chapter 5:

* Summary: Anne is persuaded by the kind and sensible Captain Benwick to attend a concert.
* Real Example: Captain Benwick's persuasion is based on his genuine desire to include Anne in the event and his admiration for her character.

Chapter 6:

* Summary: Anne overhears Wentworth expressing his lingering love for her.
* Real Example: Wentworth's accidental revelation persuades Anne that his feelings have not changed, despite his previous hurt.

Chapter 7:

* Summary: Sir Walter is persuaded by Mrs. Smith to give Anne a locket containing a miniature portrait of her.
* Real Example: Mrs. Smith's persuasion leverages Sir Walter's vanity and his desire to please his daughter.

Chapter 8:

* Summary: Anne is persuaded by Lady Russell to reject Wentworth's renewed proposal.
* Real Example: Lady Russell's persuasion is based on her belief that accepting Wentworth would be financially unwise and socially problematic for Anne.

Chapter 9:

* Summary: Wentworth is persuaded by Captain Harville to leave Bath.
* Real Example: Captain Harville's persuasion arises from his concern for Wentworth's emotional well-being and his desire to protect Anne from further turmoil.

Chapter 10:

* Summary: Anne realizes that her decision to reject Wentworth was a mistake.
* Real Example: Anne's persuasion is based on her recognition of her own feelings and the worthiness of Wentworth's character.