# XXXV explained — Mansfield Park

> Chapter companion for Mansfield Park by Jane Austen.

## What happens

Edmund, urged by Sir Thomas, speaks to Fanny about Henry Crawford's proposal. He reassures her that she was right to refuse him, but argues that Crawford's character has improved and that she could reform him. Fanny remains unconvinced, citing Crawford's behavior during the play and his lack of seriousness. Edmund, still influenced by his feelings for Mary Crawford, tries to persuade Fanny, but she resists.

## Themes in this chapter

### Marriage and Morality

The chapter explores the moral dimensions of marriage, with Edmund arguing that Fanny could reform Crawford through marriage, while Fanny insists on the importance of character and principle.

### Education and Character

Fanny and Edmund debate the influence of education and upbringing on character, with Edmund excusing Crawford's faults due to his poor education, while Fanny remains skeptical.

## Character check-ins

### Fanny Price

Fanny is low-spirited and oppressed, but feels comforted when Edmund initially supports her refusal of Crawford. She remains firm in her disapproval of Crawford's character.

### Edmund Bertram

Edmund, at Sir Thomas's request, speaks to Fanny about Crawford. He reassures her but also tries to persuade her to reconsider, revealing his own lingering partiality for Mary Crawford.

### Sir Thomas Bertram

Sir Thomas urges Edmund to speak to Fanny, hoping to promote Crawford's suit. He is anxious for Crawford to prove his constancy.

### Henry Crawford

Henry Crawford is the subject of discussion; his attachment to Fanny is praised by Edmund, but Fanny objects to his character, recalling his behavior during the play.

### Mary Crawford

Mary Crawford is mentioned indirectly as Edmund's thoughts return to her cheerfully after speaking of matrimonial happiness.

## Key lines

> I consider Crawford's proposals as most advantageous and desirable, if you could return his affection. I consider it as most natural that all your family should wish you could return it; but that, as you cannot, you have done exactly as you ought in refusing him.

Edmund tells Fanny that while her family naturally hoped she could love Crawford, she was right to refuse him since she does not return his feelings.

_Edmund initially supports Fanny's decision, aligning with her own feelings._

> He will make you happy, Fanny; I know he will make you happy; but you will make him everything.

Edmund argues that Crawford will bring Fanny happiness, and that she will complete and improve him.

_Edmund tries to persuade Fanny that she can reform Crawford through marriage._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/mansfield_park_se/chapters/xxxv
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/mansfield_park_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/mansfield_park_se/chapters