The Bates Family's Struggles

The quiet dignity and poverty of Mrs. Bates and Miss Bates, and the burden of Jane Fairfax's dependence.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Bates Household

The Bates Household A Widow and Her Daughter Mrs. Bates, the widow of a former vicar, lives with her talkative daughter Miss Bates in modest rooms. They are poor but respected. Their Social Circle They are frequent visitors at Hartfield, where Mr. Woodhouse enjoys Miss Bates's cheerful chatter. Emma often finds them tiresome.

Jane Fairfax's Arrival

Jane Fairfax's Arrival A Visit from the Niece Jane Fairfax, the orphaned niece, arrives to stay with her grandmother and aunt. She is beautiful and accomplished, but her health is fragile. Emma's Jealousy Emma is initially jealous of Jane's talents and the attention she receives, but later feels sympathy for her difficult situation.

The Pianoforte Mystery

The Pianoforte Mystery A Generous Gift The arrival of a pianoforte causes great excitement. Everyone assumes it is from Colonel Campbell, but it is actually from Frank Churchill. Jane's Secret Jane is embarrassed by the gift, as it draws attention to her secret engagement. She tries to act calmly.

Jane's Illness and Despair

Jane's Illness and Despair A Nervous Fever Jane becomes ill after the strain of her secret engagement and the quarrel with Frank. Mr. Perry attends her. Accepting a Position To escape her pain, Jane accepts a governess position with Mrs. Smallridge, though she dreads it. Her aunt is heartbroken.

Relief and Happiness

Relief and Happiness A Happy Ending Once Frank's engagement to Jane is made public, she is released from the governess position. She will marry Frank and live at Enscombe. The Bates' Joy Miss Bates and Mrs. Bates are overjoyed. Jane's prospects are now bright, and their family's struggles are eased.

throughout the story, as a backdrop

when Jane comes to visit for three months

when the pianoforte arrives at the Bates's house

after the Box Hill picnic, when Jane is ill and decides to become a governess

after Frank's engagement is revealed, when Jane's future is secured