“It it not the consciousness of men which determines their existence, it is on the contrary their social existence which determines their consciousness” (Nawzad). The fundamental idea of Marxism is that society and our surroundings are responsible for our consciousness. Marxism plays a vital role in the book Persuasion by Jane Austen. Despite Anne being the most level headed and sensible in her family she is still persuaded by society and those around her. Despite the clear presence of servants, which allow the homes of the wealthy to run smoothly, throughout the book, Austen makes no direct mention of these people. Anne is fairly easily persuaded throughout the book. She lets social norms and thoughts of others alter her decision making. …show more content…
Clay speaks] "In fact, as I have long been convinced, though every profession is necessary and honourable in its turn, it is only the lot of those who are not obliged to follow any, who can live in a regular way, in the country, choosing their own hours, following their own pursuits, and living on their own property, without the torment of trying for more; it is only their lot, I say, to hold the blessings of health and a good appearance to the utmost: I know no other set of men but what lose something of their personableness when they cease to be quite young."” (Austen). Mrs. Clay who is not part of the aristocracy is able to see what money has blinded the Eliots to. Mrs. Clay sees that it is not the social class that should be driving people but rather the enjoyment of one’s life. Mrs. Clay being of lower class than everyone else in this book has a very different outlook. Mrs. Clay sees the world in a way that is much more common in our society. She sees the world in a way that it is not the things that matter but rather the enjoyment. Anne also borders on this mindset. She was very happy with Captain Wentworth before he had money however those around her convinced her that it was important to uphold her social class even if that meant her being less happy. She was very displeased with herself for most of the book because of her break up with Captain