persuaison

the main plot of persuasion centers on anne elliot, a 27-year-old woman living in 19th-century england. anne was once engaged to a naval officer named frederick wentworth, but the engagement was broken off due to pressure from her family and lady russell, an acquaintance of the elliot family who is considered like a member of the household and cares so much about every little detail of anne's family affairs.

lady russell felt that frederick lacked the social status and wealth necessary to marry anne.

the story begins eight years after that event, when anne's family faces financial difficulties and must rent out their home, kellynch hall, to admiral croft and his wife, who happens to be frederick wentworth’s sister.

when wentworth returns to anne's life, he has become a successful and wealthy captain. although anne still loves him, she feels that wentworth no longer shares those feelings. the novel follows anne's journey as she deals with her old feelings and constant social pressure. austen carefully depicts anne’s emotional dilemma and the changes in her attitude toward wentworth and her family.

besides the relationship between anne and wentworth, austen also explores various subplots involving other characters. for instance, anne's sister mary, who is constantly complaining and seeking attention, as well as the musgrove family, who have two daughters, louisa and henrietta, who are also interested in wentworth.

each of these subplots adds depth to the story and enriches the dynamics between the characters. ultimately, persuasion is a story about love that endures despite obstacles. anne and wentworth finally confess their feelings to each other and reunite.

in my opinion, the movie version feels much sadder and anne’s heartbreak is so visceral that the audience can't help but feel it too. however, in the book, the pain feels tenfold. anne’s character seems almost too kind, innocent, and naive—she just lets her own family walk all over her. and here is my favorite quote from persuasion:

i totally recommend this if you're into the 'second chance' trope. it’s basically the 19th-century version of running into your ex when they’ve had a massive glow-up and you’re still stuck dealing with your family's drama. it’s frustrating, beautiful, and so worth the read/watch.