Mansfield Park · Chapter
XXVIII explained
Fanny prepares for the ball at Mansfield Park, feeling happy and approved by her uncle and Edmund.
What happens
Fanny prepares for the ball at Mansfield Park, feeling happy and approved by her uncle and Edmund. She dances with Henry Crawford, who shows marked attention, and endures Mary Crawford's teasing about Henry's trip to town. Sir Thomas observes Henry's interest in Fanny and invites him to join the family breakfast, furthering his hopes for a match.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and Money
Fanny's elegant appearance and dress are attributed to her upbringing at Mansfield Park, underscoring the importance of social standing and material advantages.
Marriage and Morality
Sir Thomas's matchmaking intentions and Henry Crawford's courtship of Fanny highlight the societal pressure to marry well and the moral implications of such unions.
Appearance vs. Reality
Fanny's outward happiness at the ball contrasts with her inner confusion and discomfort regarding Henry's attentions, revealing the gap between social performance and true feeling.
Characters to notice
- Fanny Price
Fanny is the central figure, enjoying the ball and feeling happy due to Edmund's request for dances and her own improved appearance.
- Edmund Bertram
Edmund asks Fanny to keep two dances for him, showing his continued kindness and support.
- Sir Thomas Bertram
Sir Thomas observes Fanny with pride and notes Henry Crawford's interest, later inviting Henry to breakfast to encourage the match.
- Henry Crawford
Henry dances with Fanny, shows marked attention, and plans to travel with William Price, revealing his romantic interest.
- Mary Crawford
Mary teases Fanny about Henry's trip to town and praises Fanny to Sir Thomas, though her comments cause Fanny discomfort.
- Mrs. Norris
Mrs. Norris busies herself with arranging the ball and takes credit for Fanny's advantages, though she is largely ignored by others.
Key passages
“You must dance with me, Fanny; you must keep two dances for me; any two that you like, except the first.”
Edmund asks Fanny to reserve two dances for him, allowing her to choose which ones, showing his considerate nature.
This moment highlights Edmund's special attention to Fanny, contrasting with Henry Crawford's more forward approach.
“Perhaps you can tell me why my brother goes to town tomorrow? He says he has business there, but will not tell me what.”
Mary Crawford questions Fanny about Henry's sudden trip to London, implying that Henry's secrecy is unusual and possibly related to Fanny.
Mary's teasing reveals her suspicion of Henry's intentions and causes Fanny further embarrassment.
“Mr. Crawford was in love with Fanny. He had a pleasing anticipation of what would be.”
Sir Thomas concludes that Henry Crawford is genuinely in love with Fanny and looks forward to a potential match.
This observation by Sir Thomas sets the stage for his later matchmaking efforts and the unfolding romantic plot.