Persuasion · Chapter
Chapter XXII explained
Anne reflects on Mrs.
What happens
Anne reflects on Mrs. Smith's revelation about Mr. Elliot's true character, feeling relief that she no longer owes him tenderness but distressed for Lady Russell and her family. She observes Mr. Elliot's insincerity and his secret meeting with Mrs. Clay. At the Musgroves', a dispute arises over attending a play versus a party at Camden Place, and Anne's quiet preference for the play catches Captain Wentworth's attention. Their brief, charged conversation about the passage of eight and a half years is interrupted by the arrival of Sir Walter and Elizabeth, whose cold elegance dampens the room's spirit.
Themes in this chapter
Regret and Second Chances
Anne and Captain Wentworth's brief conversation about 'eight years and a half' underscores the lingering regret and possibility of reconnection.
Selfishness vs. Selflessness
Mr. Elliot's insincere attentions and Mrs. Clay's manipulative behavior contrast with Anne's selfless concern for Lady Russell and her family.
Social Class and Rank
The tension between attending the play with the Musgroves versus the formal party at Camden Place highlights the importance of rank and family connections.
Characters to notice
- Anne Elliot
Relieved by knowledge of Mr. Elliot's true character, distressed for Lady Russell and her family, and deeply affected by Captain Wentworth's presence and their brief conversation.
- Captain Frederick Wentworth
Attentive to Anne during the dispute about the play, engages her in a meaningful exchange about the passage of eight and a half years.
- Mr. Elliot
Revealed as insincere and cruel through Mrs. Smith's account; observed in a secret conference with Mrs. Clay.
- Mrs. Clay
Appears obliging and placid despite Mr. Elliot's interference with her designs on Sir Walter; seen in private conversation with Mr. Elliot.
- Charles Musgrove
Insists on going to the play despite Mary's objections, dismissively referring to Mr. Elliot as 'the rising sun' and refusing to bow to him.
- Mary Musgrove
Eager to attend the party at Camden Place to meet Lady Dalrymple and Mr. Elliot, and annoyed by Charles's plan for the play.
Key passages
“She was most thankful for her own knowledge of him. She had never considered herself as entitled to reward for not slighting an old friend like Mrs. Smith, but here was a reward indeed springing from it!”
Anne felt grateful that her loyalty to Mrs. Smith had unexpectedly given her valuable insight into Mr. Elliot's character.
Anne reflects on the unintended benefit of her kindness to Mrs. Smith.
“If I would not go for the sake of your father, I should think it scandalous to go for the sake of his heir. What is Mr. Elliot to me?”
Charles declares he would not attend a party for Mr. Elliot's sake if he wouldn't go for Sir Walter's, dismissing the importance of the heir.
Charles's blunt refusal to prioritize Mr. Elliot over Sir Walter.
“It is a period, indeed! Eight years and a half is a period.”
Captain Wentworth acknowledges the significant length of time since he and Anne last had a meaningful connection.
A poignant moment between Anne and Captain Wentworth, hinting at unresolved feelings.