Persuasion · Chapter
Chapter XVI explained
Anne returns to her family in Bath and observes Sir Walter's attentions to Mrs.
What happens
Anne returns to her family in Bath and observes Sir Walter's attentions to Mrs. Clay, which cause her concern. Lady Russell becomes increasingly impressed by Mr. Elliot, seeing him as an agreeable and estimable man, while Anne remains more cautious. The Elliots anxiously seek to renew their connection with their noble cousins, Lady Dalrymple and Miss Carteret, leading to a discussion between Anne and Mr. Elliot about the nature of good company and the value of rank.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and Rank
The Elliots' anxious pursuit of their noble cousins and the debate between Anne and Mr. Elliot about the value of rank versus genuine merit underscore the theme of social class.
Family Dynamics and Duty
Anne's concern over her father's attachment to Mrs. Clay and the family's collective effort to restore the Dalrymple connection highlight family obligations and tensions.
Persuasion and Influence
Lady Russell's growing approval of Mr. Elliot and her influence on Anne's perceptions, as well as Sir Walter's manipulation of Mrs. Clay, demonstrate the power of persuasion.
Characters to notice
- Anne Elliot
Anne returns to Bath, observes her father's favor toward Mrs. Clay, and reflects on her differing views from Lady Russell regarding Mr. Elliot. She expresses her disdain for the family's eagerness to court their noble cousins.
- Lady Russell
Lady Russell is increasingly charmed by Mr. Elliot, finding him agreeable and estimable, and is vexed by Mrs. Clay's influence and Anne being overlooked.
- Mr. Elliot
Mr. Elliot is warmly received by Lady Russell and engages in a philosophical discussion with Anne about good company, valuing rank and connection.
- Sir Walter Elliot
Sir Walter shows excessive attention to Mrs. Clay, compliments Anne's improved looks, and eagerly pursues a renewal of the family connection with Lady Dalrymple.
- Elizabeth Elliot
Elizabeth is dismissive of Anne and encourages Mrs. Clay to stay, showing no concern for her father's attentions to Mrs. Clay.
- Mrs. Clay
Mrs. Clay is persuaded to remain in Bath after a pretense of leaving, and is the recipient of Sir Walter's flattery.
Key passages
“My idea of good company, Mr. Elliot, is the company of clever, well-informed people, who have a great deal of conversation; that is what I call good company.”
Anne defines good company as consisting of intelligent, knowledgeable individuals with whom one can engage in substantial conversation.
This exchange highlights Anne's values versus Mr. Elliot's more conventional view of society based on birth and manners.
“You are mistaken, said he gently, that is not good company; that is the best. Good company requires only birth, education, and manners, and with regard to education is not very nice.”
Mr. Elliot gently corrects Anne, explaining that what she describes is the best company, while good company merely requires proper birth and manners, with education being less important.
Mr. Elliot's distinction between 'good' and 'best' company reveals his pragmatic acceptance of social hierarchies.