Mansfield Park · Chapter
Chapter XXV explained
During a card party at Mansfield Park, Henry Crawford discusses his plans for improving Thornton Lacey, while Mrs.
What happens
During a card party at Mansfield Park, Henry Crawford discusses his plans for improving Thornton Lacey, while Mrs. Norris reminisces about Sotherton. Sir Thomas observes Henry's pointed attentions toward Fanny. William Price expresses his frustrations about his naval career and his longing to see Fanny dance. Henry Crawford offers to answer for Fanny's dancing, and Sir Thomas engages in conversation about dancing in Antigua. The evening ends with Henry Crawford assisting Fanny with her shawl, much to her discomfort.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and Money
William Price's remarks about Portsmouth girls snubbing him because he lacks a commission, and Mrs. Norris's pride in the Rushworths' fine fortune at Brighton, underscore the importance of rank and wealth in social acceptance.
Appearance vs. Reality
Henry Crawford professes admiration for Fanny's dancing despite not actually remembering it, and his attentions appear genuine but are calculated, highlighting the gap between appearance and reality.
Duty and Self-Restraint
Sir Thomas's discussion of the clergyman's duty and Edmund's affirmation of it contrast with Henry Crawford's worldly plans for Thornton Lacey, emphasizing the tension between duty and personal ambition.
Characters to notice
- Fanny Price
Fanny is the object of Henry Crawford's attentions and feels distressed by his professions. She defends William against social slights and is disappointed when Mr. Crawford rather than Edmund helps her with her shawl.
- Henry Crawford
Henry Crawford discusses his plans for Thornton Lacey, pays pointed attentions to Fanny, and claims to admire her dancing. He takes the opportunity to assist her with her shawl at the end of the evening.
- Edmund Bertram
Edmund smiles at Fanny's wish for William to win the game and later speaks of the duty of a parish priest, causing discomfort to Mary Crawford and Fanny.
- Sir Thomas Bertram
Sir Thomas observes Henry Crawford's behavior toward Fanny, discusses dancing in Antigua, and advises William against going to Brighton. He also speaks of the duties of a clergyman.
- William Price
William Price expresses his frustrations about his naval career and his desire to see Fanny dance. He recalls their childhood dancing together and feels the sting of social snobbery from Portsmouth girls.
- Mary Crawford
Mary Crawford praises Henry's improvements at Sotherton and is discomposed by Sir Thomas's remarks about Thornton Lacey becoming Edmund's home, realizing she would not see him every day.
Key passages
“I should be sorry to have my powers of planning judged of by the day at Sotherton. I see things very differently now. Do not think of me as I appeared then.”
Henry Crawford tells Fanny that his abilities as a planner should not be assessed based on the Sotherton visit, as his perspective has changed since then.
Henry attempts to distance himself from his earlier flirtatious behavior at Sotherton, suggesting personal growth.
“I begin to think I shall never be a lieutenant, Fanny. Everybody gets made but me.”
William Price confides in Fanny that he fears he will never achieve the rank of lieutenant, feeling that others are promoted while he is overlooked.
William expresses his discouragement about his naval career prospects.
“I am sorry to say that I am unable to answer your question. I have never seen Fanny dance since she was a little girl; but I trust we shall both think she acquits herself like a gentlewoman when we do see her, which, perhaps, we may have an opportunity of doing ere long.”
Sir Thomas admits he has not seen Fanny dance since childhood but expresses confidence that she will dance like a lady when the occasion arises.
Sir Thomas's response hints at a possible future ball, showing his growing regard for Fanny.
