PERSUASION

‘Persuasion’ published in December 1817 is a classic novel by Jane Austen an English novelist known mainly for her six prominent novels which interpret critique and comment upon the British landed gentry at the end of the 18th century.Born to a landed family Anne Elliot is observant and clever. When Anne came of age she accepted a proposal from the enterprising officer Frederick Wentworth. Unfortunately Wentworth had a poor choice for the Elliot family and Anne was persuaded to call off the engagement. But nearly a decade later Anne who has unwavering integrity has not forgotten about Wentworth. Little does she know that her fortune is about to change.The Elliots make ill-advised investments and lose their money. They are forced to rent out their ancestral home and move to Bath. Anne once again meets Wentworth there who is now a captain in what could be her second and final possibility at love and marriage. Jane Austen’s benevolent characterization and thoughtful social commentary has made this novel a must-read for any Jane Austen fan.