Chapter VI explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Social Class and Money

  The discussion of improving Sotherton Court highlights the importance of wealth and status, with Mrs. Norris urging Mr. Rushworth to spare no expense, and Mary Crawford's comments on the navy reflect class distinctions.

• Appearance vs. Reality

  Mr. Rushworth's desire to improve Sotherton contrasts with its current state, and Mary Crawford's polished manners hide her disdain for the navy, revealing a gap between outward charm and inner feelings.

Characters to notice

• Mary Crawford

  Miss Crawford takes her place at dinner, expecting Edmund's absence to make the meal dull, and engages in conversation about the navy, revealing her disdain for the profession.

• Edmund Bertram

  Edmund is absent from the dinner, having set off for ⸻, but is discussed and later mentioned in relation to Fanny's brother.

• Mr. Rushworth

  Mr. Rushworth is eager to improve Sotherton Court, seeking advice from Henry Crawford and discussing his plans with the company.

• Henry Crawford

  Henry Crawford offers his expertise on improvements, having improved his own estate Everingham, and agrees to assist Mr. Rushworth.

• Fanny Price

  Fanny speaks about her brother William at sea, blushing for his sake, and is prompted by Edmund to relate his situation.

• Mrs. Norris

  Mrs. Norris defends Sotherton Court, encourages Mr. Rushworth's improvements, and proposes a party to visit Sotherton.

Key passages

• “Mr. Bertram set off for ⸻, and Miss Crawford was prepared to find a great chasm in their society, and to miss him decidedly in the meetings which were now becoming almost daily between the families”

  Edmund left for an unknown destination, and Mary Crawford expected his absence to create a noticeable void in their frequent social gatherings.

  Mary anticipates Edmund's absence will make the dinner dull.

• “I wish you could see Compton... it is the most complete thing! I never saw a place so altered in my life.”

  Mr. Rushworth enthusiastically describes Compton's transformation, wishing others could see it.

  Mr. Rushworth is impressed by the improvements at Compton.

• “Miss Price has a brother at sea... whose excellence as a correspondent makes her think you too severe upon us.”

  Edmund defends Fanny's brother William, noting his skill as a letter writer.

  Edmund praises William's correspondence to counter Mary's criticism.

• “Of Rears and Vices I saw enough. Now do not be suspecting me of a pun, I entreat.”

  Mary Crawford claims to have seen plenty of 'rears' and 'vices' among admirals, playfully denying any pun.

  Mary makes a suggestive pun about naval ranks, causing Edmund discomfort.