Persuasion Research Paper

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Themes of the Romantic Period in Jane Austen’s Persuasion Jane Austen’s novels are considered to belong to the Romantic period by some critics and to the Victorian period by others. However, it is clear that many themes that were prevalent in the Romantic period are intertwined into Austen’s work, especially in her novel, Persuasion. Her conscious critique of social standing and the importance of money clearly echo many writers’ themes in the time of the Romantic period. Austen’s views of women’s dependence on marriage and gender roles are a beacon for the future, despite her own struggles during the Romantic period. Her strong themes and positive outlook for gender roles are what make her a talented Romantic author in the Romantic period. …show more content…

Social status and the importance of wealth are explored in the characters of Mr. Elliot and Captain Wentworth. Mr. Elliot is seen as a proper match for Anne as their marriage would ensure that neither Anne nor Mr. Elliot drop in social status, unlike with Mr. Eilliot’s first marriage (7). Captain Wentworth is not seen as a suitable match for Anne until he holds his title of Captain that he worked extremely hard for (175-176). Austen’s distinction between someone born into money, like Mr. Elliot, and someone who had to work hard for all the fortune they have, like Captain Wentworth, is quite important. The contrast between these two characters is a clear critique of Austen’s society’s values and shows the critical way in which Austen viewed society and how she wanted to portray