]Perhaps this is because I am easily guided by the narrator and by Anne's point of view.

I find this very interesting. In this GR, I have tried to be more open-minded and fair to Lady Russell than I have in the past.

Are we supposed to doubt Anne's ability to be a good judge of character? If Anne considers Lady Russell an "excellent friend," then why should we question this? Why should we believe that Anne is put upon, if we believe in all other aspects, she is a good judge of character?

She sees through Mr. Elliot and Mrs. Clay; she sees the good in Mrs. Musgrove, though she acknowledges this character's faults; she does not ignore the failings of even her own family members; she acknowledges Frederick Wentworth's qualities as well as his errors in judgment (e.g. where the Musgrove sisters are concerned).