Mansfield Park · Chapters

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Chapter companions for Mansfield Park by Jane Austen.

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Chapter 1
I
The chapter introduces the three Ward sisters: Maria, who marries Sir Thomas Bertram and becomes Lady Bertram; Miss Ward, who marries the Rev. Mr. Norris; and Frances, who marries a poor lieutenant of marines, leading to a family rift. After eleven years, Mrs. Price seeks reconciliation, and the Bertrams and Mrs. Norris decide to take in her eldest daughter, Fanny Price, to raise at Mansfield Park.
Chapter 2
Chapter II
Fanny Price arrives at Mansfield Park at age ten, feeling utterly miserable and out of place. She is overwhelmed by the grandeur of the house, the coldness of her cousins, and the admonitions of Mrs. Norris. Only Edmund Bertram shows her genuine kindness, comforting her when he finds her crying on the attic stairs and offering to help her write to her beloved brother William.
Chapter 3
Chapter III
Mrs. Norris refuses to take Fanny into her home after Mr. Norris's death, claiming poverty and ill health, while Edmund tries to console Fanny about the prospect of living with her aunt. Ultimately, Mrs. Norris's protests prevent the plan, and Fanny remains at Mansfield Park.
Chapter 4
IV
The Crawfords arrive at Mansfield, with Mary Crawford seeking a wealthy marriage and Henry Crawford proving a flirt. Edmund secures a horse for Fanny's health, while Sir Thomas remains abroad and Tom returns home. Mrs. Norris begrudges Fanny's new horse, and the Bertrams anticipate Maria's advantageous engagement to Mr. Rushworth.
Chapter 5
V
The young people meet and are mutually pleased. Miss Crawford's beauty charms the Bertram sisters, while Henry Crawford's plainness is soon overlooked. Maria, engaged to Mr. Rushworth, and Julia both show interest in Henry. The Crawfords discuss marriage and being 'taken in.' Fanny remains quiet and unnoticed, prompting Miss Crawford to question whether she is 'out' or not. Edmund defends Fanny's modesty, and a discussion ensues about the manners of young ladies in society.

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I

Chapter II

Chapter III

IV

V