Power is also another factor that plays a role in the desire for social status. In this novel Austen explores the ways in which power over others is related to class and wealth. We have already seen how the power associated with class and social hierarchy has succeeded in changing the direction of Anne's life through the persuasion of Lady Russell. An interesting aspect of the novel is that Austen also examines the shifting and changing patterns of power in the society at that time. As a result of the Napoleonic Wars, a division has arisen in English society between the old aristocracy and the new middle classes, represented by the individual entrepreneur. This can be seen in the way that power shifts in the novel between the Eliot and Wentworth families. (Persuasion by Jane Austen: In a Nutshell)
2.2. Women in society
Another factor that is important and which is related to the above themes in the novel is the position of women in society. Austen, in portraying the main female character in contrast to the other characters, attempt to show how women have to contend with a society dominated by male ideas of hierarchy and status, while at the same time attempting to find their own sense of identity and self-worth. Central to the problems that Anne Eliot faces is that women in the society have to live within rigid class distinctions. This is the reason why she is persuaded not to marry Wentworth and the reason for her wasting twenty -- seven years of her life as a spinster.
This refers to the fact that women in English society during this period had no option but marriage. Furthermore, it was required that a women 'marry well' if she was to advance in society and overcome status barriers. In this light Anne can be forgiven for being persuaded by Lady Russell not to marry beneath her status, or at least her action can be better understood.
From a feminist point-of-view women were subject to both the class prejudice as well as to sexual and gender biases and restrictions. Jane Austen was aware of this double yoke under which women lived and her novels are an attempt to reveal and expose the situation of women in the society of the time.
2.3. Independence and identity.
Closely linked to the above themes is the theme of independence, the ability to make up one's own mind and the questioning of those who would persuade or influence one. This also refers to the theme of self-knowledge and identity. As the novel progresses, Anne as well Frederick Wentworth learn that one should not be forced or persuaded into...
She has spent the last ten years in sadness and solitude, even in her own family. She could have had ten years of happiness and contentment had it not been for Lady Russell, who finally acknowledges she made a grave mistake when she gave Anne advice about the man. Late in the novel Austen writes, "There was nothing less for Lady Russell to do, than to admit that she
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