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Persuasion is said by some to be Jane Austen’s most romantic book. Others think it is a sad, rather autumnal book, about missed opportunities. Jane Austen wrote it at the end of her life. Which view do you take, if any? Do you think either is correct? What was your response to Anne Elliot’s story?
- In the extended Musgrove family, who has the highest social standing? And who has the lowest? Does this reflect in their characters? Do we still view and rank people by their social standings? What do you think of the formal and generally well-accepted way in which they practised this?
- Discuss the character of Anne Elliot. Is she a conventional romantic heroine? Do we see her as the characters in the novel see her? Is the story seen through her eyes? If not, how not?
- Although Anne and Captain Wentworth have not seen each other for seven years, their feelings are as strong as ever. Do you think this is realistic? Do you think today’s society would support this kind of constancy? Does it make the central story less relevant, or does it make it more timeless?
- Jane Austen’s brother Henry gave Persuasion its title after Jane’s death. What is the significance of the title Persuasion? Does it have positive or negative connotations?
- How important is Kellynch Hall? Does it act as the focal point of the novel, or merely as a plot device?
- Does Austen respect the rigid late-eighteenth century / Regency class structure, or does she seek to subvert such traditions in Persuasion
- How important is family in Persuasion? Does it bear any reflection on the individual? If you have also read it, consider alongside Mansfield Park
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