Posted by Laraine on July 25, 1997 at 10:27:26:
In reply to Re: Harriet and Anne, have they something in common? posted by CK on July 25, 1997 at 00:07:45
] Given Harriet's status in society, she was probably very susceptible to Emma's guidance. ...Emma's influence was able to sway Harriet away from Robert Martin without Harriet really believing that she was endangering future happiness. Harriet probably believed that she was giving up Robert Martin for someone better.
] On the other hand, I get the feeling from Anne...gave into family and society pressures for the family's happiness. Anne probably realized the great sacrifice she was making to fulfil her duty, yet none the less made it. I agree with the earlier post that Lady Russell's wish for Anne to fill her mother's shoes was probably a hugh pressure on her and forced her to cave in.
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Well said, CK. I very much agree--although I think the pressure to "fill her mother's shoes" would not have been there when Anne refused Frederick. The Sir Walter and Mr. Elliot were at odds until after the death of Mr. Elliot's first. I think it was a more general pressure not to marry beneath the family's and Lady Russell's expectations, and I completely agree that Anne was fighting with a sense of duty towards people she actually didn't esteem that much (except Lady Russell).
Laraine