Persuasion

Explain the theme of persuasion as presented in the novel. What different forms of persuasion occur? How does Austen characterize persuasion?

What does the novel suggest about constancy of emotion? How is this theme discussed in the three marriages of the novel: Henrietta and Charles Hayter, Benwick and Louisa, and Wentworth and Anne?

Why do the Musgrove sisters look to Lady Russell for advice? Why is Lady Russell’s opinion so highly valued by the other women of the novel? How is Lady Russel’s social position informed by her widowhood?

Compare the Elliot’s relationships with the Dalrymples and the Musgroves. How does Elizabeth’s evening party at the end of the novel contribute toward uniting these two families?

How are gender roles represented in the novel? Does any character act against what is expected of their gender?

How does age factor into the characters interactions with each other? Is older necessarily wiser?

Persuasion is written with a strong narrative voice, through the literary technique of free indirect discourse. How does the narrator work to direct the reader’s attention to what is deemed important to the narrative? How does the narrator interfere with the reader’s perception of some characters?

How did Wentworth’s pride interfere with his relationship with Anne? What or who is most responsible for their separation?