"Mansfield Park" is a novel written by Jane Austen, published in 1814. The story revolves around the life of Fanny Price, a young girl from a poor family who is sent to live with her wealthy relatives at Mansfield Park. Here's a brief summary and some of the key characters:
Summary:
Fanny Price is sent to live with her aunt and uncle, Sir Thomas and Lady Bertram, at Mansfield Park when she's ten years old. She grows up there alongside her cousins, including the charming but shallow Tom and Maria, the lively Julia, and the reserved Edmund. Fanny develops a deep affection for Edmund over the years.
The novel explores themes of social class, morality, and the consequences of one's actions. Fanny is often the moral compass of the story, contrasting with the more morally questionable characters.
Key Characters:
1. Fanny Price - The novel's protagonist, a kind and virtuous young woman who faces challenges and moral dilemmas throughout her life at Mansfield Park.
2. Edmund Bertram - Fanny's cousin and closest friend, a clergyman who shares her moral values.
3. Sir Thomas Bertram - Fanny's wealthy uncle, the master of Mansfield Park.
4. Lady Bertram - Sir Thomas's wife, a somewhat indolent and indifferent mother figure.
5. Maria Bertram - The elder Bertram daughter, who becomes entangled in a scandalous affair.
6. Julia Bertram - The younger Bertram daughter, also involved in the family's drama.
7. Tom Bertram - The elder Bertram son, who is often reckless and irresponsible.
8. Henry Crawford - A charming and wealthy visitor who stirs emotions and complications within the family.
9. Mary Crawford - Henry's sister, who becomes a love interest for Edmund and disrupts Fanny's world.
These are some of the central characters in "Mansfield Park," and the novel explores their interactions and personal growth throughout the story.