Opening of the story
Sir Walter's Vanity and Family
Sir Walter Elliot, a vain baronet, takes great pride in his appearance and his lineage, as recorded in the Baronetage. He lives at Kellynch Hall with his two unmarried daughters, Elizabeth and Anne, while his youngest daughter Mary is married to Charles Musgrove. Sir Walter's vanity and extravagance have led to mounting debts, and he is forced to consider retrenchment.
Early in the story
Lady Russell's Counsel
Lady Russell, a close family friend and Anne's godmother, is consulted about the family's financial difficulties. She advises strict economy, but Sir Walter and Elizabeth resist any significant reduction in their lifestyle. Anne, who is often overlooked, supports more rigorous measures, but her opinions are disregarded.
Early in the story
Decision to Let Kellynch Hall
Mr. Shepherd, the family lawyer, suggests that Sir Walter might let Kellynch Hall and move to a more economical residence. After much deliberation, Sir Walter agrees to let the house and move to Bath, a decision that pleases Lady Russell but disappoints Anne, who dislikes Bath.
Early in the story
Admiral Croft as Tenant
Admiral Croft, a wealthy naval officer, applies to rent Kellynch Hall. Despite Sir Walter's prejudice against the navy, he is persuaded by Mr. Shepherd and the Admiral's respectable appearance. The Crofts become the new tenants, and the family prepares to move to Bath.
Eight years before the main story
Anne's Broken Engagement
Anne Elliot, at nineteen, fell deeply in love with Captain Frederick Wentworth, a young naval officer with no fortune. However, persuaded by Lady Russell, who considered the match imprudent, Anne broke off the engagement. Wentworth left, feeling ill-used, and Anne has regretted her decision ever since.
During the eight years after the broken engagement
Wentworth's Success
Captain Wentworth distinguished himself in the navy, gained promotion, and amassed a fortune through prize money. Anne, who has followed his career through naval lists, believes he is now rich and likely unmarried, which adds to her regret over their broken engagement.
Autumn 1814
Family Moves to Bath
Sir Walter, Elizabeth, and Mrs. Clay move to a house in Camden Place, Bath. Anne, instead of accompanying them, stays at Uppercross Cottage with Mary and Charles Musgrove, as Mary claims to be ill and in need of her company.
Autumn 1814
Anne at Uppercross
Anne settles into life at Uppercross, acting as a mediator between Mary and the Musgrove family. She becomes a confidante to both sides, listening to complaints and offering gentle advice. She also forms a close bond with her nephews, Little Charles and Walter.
Michaelmas 1814
The Crofts Take Possession
Admiral and Mrs. Croft take possession of Kellynch Hall. Anne, who has been dreading this moment, finds Mrs. Croft to be a kind and sensible woman. During their visit, Mrs. Croft mentions that her brother, Captain Wentworth, is expected to visit them soon, causing Anne great agitation.
Shortly after the Crofts' visit
Mrs. Musgrove's Grief for Richard
Mrs. Musgrove becomes distressed upon learning that Captain Wentworth was the captain of her late son, Richard Musgrove, who died at sea. She romanticizes her son's memory, though he was a troublesome and unremarkable young man. The family's talk of Wentworth further unsettles Anne.
A few days later
Wentworth's Arrival at Uppercross
Captain Wentworth arrives at Kellynch and soon becomes a frequent visitor at Uppercross. He is warmly received by the Musgroves, who are grateful for his kindness to Richard. Anne and Wentworth meet again for the first time in eight years, a tense and awkward encounter.
After their first meeting
Wentworth's Coldness
Wentworth's behavior towards Anne is cold and distant. He tells Henrietta that Anne is so altered he would not have known her, a comment that deeply wounds Anne. He seems determined to show his indifference and is openly attentive to the Miss Musgroves.
During his stay at Uppercross
Wentworth's Intentions
Wentworth, now rich and looking to marry, is attracted to both Henrietta and Louisa Musgrove. He tells his sister he is ready to fall in love with any pleasing young woman, except Anne Elliot, whom he has not forgiven. His pride and resentment still govern his feelings.
Soon after Wentworth's arrival
Dinner at the Musgroves
Anne and Wentworth are thrown together at a dinner party at the Great House. They have no private conversation, but Anne observes him closely. She notes his ease with the Musgroves and his engaging stories about naval life, which remind her of their past happiness.
During the dinner party
The Navy List Scene
The Miss Musgroves eagerly examine the Navy List to find the ships Wentworth commanded. He recounts his early career, including his command of the HMS Asp and the HMS Laconia. His stories captivate the young ladies, while Anne listens with a mixture of pain and pride.
During the dinner party
Wentworth's Gallantry to Mrs. Musgrove
Wentworth shows unexpected kindness to Mrs. Musgrove, sitting beside her and listening sympathetically to her talk of her dead son. Anne is struck by his compassion, though she also notes the absurdity of Mrs. Musgrove's large frame and sentimental grief.
During the dinner party
Debate on Women at Sea
A lively debate arises about women living on board naval ships. Wentworth argues against it, claiming accommodations are unsuitable, while Mrs. Croft defends the practice, citing her own happy experiences. The Admiral jests that Wentworth will change his mind when he marries.
After the dinner party
Evening Dance at Uppercross
The evening ends with dancing. Anne plays the piano while the others dance. She notices Wentworth's high spirits and his attention to the young ladies. Once, he speaks to her with cold politeness, offering her a seat, which only deepens her sense of estrangement.
Shortly after Wentworth's arrival
Charles Hayter's Jealousy
Charles Hayter, Henrietta's cousin and former suitor, returns to Uppercross and finds himself displaced by Wentworth. Henrietta's attention is now divided, and Hayter becomes jealous. He eventually withdraws, deciding to stay away from Uppercross.
One morning at the Cottage
Wentworth Rescues Anne from Walter
Anne is alone with the sick Little Charles when Wentworth unexpectedly enters. The younger boy, Walter, clings to Anne, and Wentworth gently removes him. This small act of kindness deeply affects Anne, though Wentworth seems to avoid her gratitude.
A fine November day
Walk to Winthrop
The whole party, including Wentworth, takes a long walk towards Winthrop, the Hayter family home. During the walk, Wentworth and Louisa become separated from the others. Anne overhears Wentworth praising Louisa's firmness of character, a quality he now values above all.
During the walk to Winthrop
The Nut Speech
Wentworth, picking a hazelnut, uses it as a metaphor for firmness of character. He praises the nut for its strength and resilience, implicitly contrasting it with Anne's past weakness in yielding to persuasion. The speech is a pointed critique of Anne's decision to break their engagement.
During the walk to Winthrop
Louisa Reveals Charles's Proposal
Louisa tells Wentworth that Charles Musgrove had once proposed to Anne, who refused him. Wentworth is surprised and curious. This revelation plants a seed of doubt in his mind about Anne's feelings and the influence of Lady Russell.
After the walk to Winthrop
Anne Rides with the Crofts
As the party returns, Admiral and Mrs. Croft offer Anne a ride in their gig. Wentworth helps her into the carriage, a gesture that Anne interprets as a sign of his lingering care. During the ride, the Crofts discuss Wentworth's likely marriage to one of the Musgrove girls.
Late November 1814
Plan to Visit Lyme
Wentworth returns from a visit to his friend Captain Harville in Lyme and describes the beautiful coastal town. The young people become eager to visit, and a party is arranged: Charles, Mary, Anne, Henrietta, Louisa, and Wentworth will go to Lyme for the day.
The day of the visit
The Party Arrives in Lyme
The party arrives in Lyme and immediately walks to the sea. They visit the Cobb, where Wentworth calls on the Harvilles. They are introduced to Captain and Mrs. Harville and Captain Benwick, a melancholy young man mourning the death of his fiancée, Fanny Harville.
Evening in Lyme
Anne's Conversation with Benwick
At the Harvilles' home, Anne finds herself seated next to Captain Benwick. They discuss poetry and grief, and Anne gently advises him to read more prose to fortify his mind. Benwick is grateful for her sympathy and takes note of her recommendations.
The next morning in Lyme
Anne Meets Mr. Elliot
While walking on the beach, Anne encounters a handsome, well-dressed gentleman who admires her. Later, they discover he is Mr. William Walter Elliot, Sir Walter's heir and estranged cousin. The coincidence causes excitement, especially for Mary, but Anne is more reserved.
The second day in Lyme
Louisa's Fall from the Cobb
As the party prepares to leave, Louisa insists on being jumped down the steps of the Cobb by Wentworth. She runs up to be jumped again, but misjudges and falls, striking her head on the pavement. She lies motionless, apparently lifeless, causing panic and horror.
Immediately after the fall
Aftermath of the Accident
Anne takes charge, directing Captain Benwick to fetch a surgeon and organizing the others. Louisa is carried to the Harvilles' house, where the surgeon pronounces her not in immediate danger but suffering from a severe concussion. She must remain in Lyme to recover.
After the accident
Anne Stays in Lyme
It is decided that Anne will stay in Lyme to help nurse Louisa, but Mary insists on taking her place. Anne returns to Uppercross with Wentworth and Henrietta. During the journey, Wentworth expresses his anguish over the accident, calling Louisa 'dear, sweet Louisa,' which pains Anne.
A few days after the accident
Anne Leaves Uppercross
Anne's time at Uppercross ends. She helps the Musgroves prepare to go to Lyme and then leaves for Kellynch Lodge to stay with Lady Russell. She feels a deep sense of loss, knowing that Uppercross will never be the same, and that Wentworth is likely lost to her.
Late November 1814
Anne at Kellynch Lodge
Anne reunites with Lady Russell, who notices an improvement in her looks. They discuss the accident and Wentworth's attachment to Louisa. Anne tells Lady Russell that she believes Wentworth and Louisa will marry, and Lady Russell is secretly pleased, thinking Wentworth unworthy of Anne.
Shortly after Anne's return to Kellynch
Visit to the Crofts
Anne and Lady Russell visit the Crofts at Kellynch Hall. The Admiral is cheerful and talks about the changes they have made. He mentions that Wentworth has been in Kellynch and has inquired after Anne. The visit is pleasant, but Anne is relieved that Wentworth is not there.
After the Crofts' visit
News of Benwick's Attachment
Charles and Mary return from Lyme and report that Captain Benwick has become attached to Louisa. They are now engaged, with Mr. Musgrove's consent. Anne is astonished but also relieved, realizing that Wentworth is now free. She feels a secret, shameful joy.
Shortly after the news of Benwick's engagement
Anne Learns of Wentworth's Freedom
Anne meets Admiral Croft in Bath, who tells her that Wentworth has written to confirm Benwick's engagement to Louisa. The Admiral expresses his wish that Wentworth should marry soon and suggests bringing him to Bath. Anne is deeply moved, realizing Wentworth is unattached.
Early December 1814
Anne Arrives in Bath
Anne travels to Bath with Lady Russell. She is met by her father and sister, who are in high spirits. They tell her about Mr. Elliot's unexpected return to the family and his frequent visits. Anne is curious but wary of his motives.
Before Anne's arrival in Bath
Mr. Elliot's Reconciliation
Mr. Elliot has successfully reconciled with Sir Walter and Elizabeth, apologizing for his past neglect. He is now a frequent and welcome guest in Camden Place. Sir Walter and Elizabeth are charmed by him, and Lady Russell begins to think highly of him as well.
Her first evening in Bath
Anne Meets Mr. Elliot
Mr. Elliot calls at Camden Place and is introduced to Anne. He recognizes her from Lyme and is clearly impressed. His manners are polished and agreeable, and Anne finds him pleasant, though she cannot help comparing him to Wentworth.
Shortly after Anne's arrival
Sir Walter's Concern for Mrs. Clay
Anne observes that her father is becoming increasingly attentive to Mrs. Clay, praising her appearance and urging her to stay. Anne is alarmed, fearing that Mrs. Clay may have designs on Sir Walter. Elizabeth seems oblivious to the danger.
During Anne's first weeks in Bath
Lady Russell's Approval of Mr. Elliot
Lady Russell becomes a strong advocate for Mr. Elliot, believing him to be a suitable match for Anne. She praises his character, manners, and prospects, and hints that Anne should consider him. Anne is uncomfortable with these hints, as her heart still belongs to Wentworth.
Winter 1814-1815
The Dalrymple Connection
Sir Walter and Elizabeth are eager to renew their connection with their cousins, Lady Dalrymple and Miss Carteret, who are in Bath. They go to great lengths to secure an introduction, much to Anne's embarrassment. Mr. Elliot supports the effort, valuing the social prestige.
Winter 1814-1815
Anne's Friendship with Mrs. Smith
Anne renews her acquaintance with Mrs. Smith, a former schoolfellow who is now a poor, crippled widow living in humble lodgings. Anne visits her regularly, finding her to be a cheerful and resilient companion. Sir Walter and Elizabeth disapprove of the connection.
During Anne's visits
Mrs. Smith's Story
Mrs. Smith tells Anne about her husband's ruin and her own struggles. She hints that Mr. Elliot, once a close friend of her husband, behaved badly and refused to help her after her husband's death. Anne is intrigued but does not press for details.
Early February 1815
Wentworth Arrives in Bath
Captain Wentworth arrives in Bath, having been urged by the Crofts. Anne sees him in Milsom Street, and they have a brief, awkward encounter. He seems embarrassed and unsure of himself, a change from his earlier coldness. Anne is both hopeful and anxious.
Winter 1814-1815
Mr. Elliot's Attentions
Mr. Elliot continues to pay marked attention to Anne, escorting her and showing her preference. He speaks to her of his long-standing admiration, claiming to have heard of her from a mutual friend. Anne is flattered but also suspicious of his motives.
A few days after Wentworth's arrival
The Concert
Anne attends a concert with her family and Mr. Elliot. She sees Wentworth there and they have a meaningful conversation, during which he speaks of his feelings about Louisa's engagement. Anne senses that he still cares for her, but Mr. Elliot's presence creates tension.
During the concert
Wentworth's Jealousy
Wentworth becomes jealous of Mr. Elliot's attentions to Anne. He leaves the concert abruptly, telling Anne that nothing is worth staying for. Anne realizes that his jealousy is a sign of his enduring love, but she is distressed by the misunderstanding.
The day after the concert
Mrs. Smith Reveals Mr. Elliot's Character
Anne visits Mrs. Smith, who finally reveals the truth about Mr. Elliot. She shows Anne a letter in which Mr. Elliot expresses contempt for Sir Walter and the family. Mrs. Smith explains that Mr. Elliot is a cold, calculating man who only seeks to marry Anne to secure his inheritance and prevent Sir Walter from marrying Mrs. Clay.
After Mrs. Smith's revelation
Anne's Disillusionment
Anne is shocked and disgusted by Mr. Elliot's true character. She resolves to distance herself from him and to warn Lady Russell. She now sees his attentions as manipulative and feels grateful for Mrs. Smith's timely disclosure.
A few days later
The Musgroves Arrive in Bath
Mrs. Musgrove, Charles, Mary, Henrietta, and Captain Harville arrive in Bath. They visit Anne at the White Hart, where she is delighted to see them. The conversation is lively, and Anne learns that Henrietta is now engaged to Charles Hayter.
The same day
Wentworth at the White Hart
Captain Wentworth joins the party at the White Hart. He and Anne are in the same room, but he seems distant. He writes a letter, ostensibly to Captain Benwick, but Anne suspects it is for her. The tension between them is palpable.
At the White Hart
The Argument on Constancy
Anne and Captain Harville engage in a debate about whether men or women are more constant in love. Anne argues that women love longest, even when hope is gone. Captain Harville disagrees, but their conversation is overheard by Wentworth, who is deeply moved.
Immediately after the argument
Wentworth's Letter
Wentworth, having overheard Anne's declaration of constancy, writes her a passionate letter confessing his undying love. He tells her that he has loved none but her and that he offers himself to her again. He slips the letter to her as he leaves the room.
After Wentworth leaves
Anne Reads the Letter
Anne reads Wentworth's letter in a state of overwhelming joy and emotion. The letter reveals his true feelings and his hope for a reconciliation. She is now certain of his love and her own happiness.
Later that day
Anne and Wentworth's Reconciliation
Anne and Wentworth meet by chance in the street and walk together. They finally speak openly, clearing up all misunderstandings. Wentworth explains his jealousy of Mr. Elliot and his past pride. They renew their engagement, this time with full knowledge and consent.
That evening
The Evening Party at Camden Place
Anne attends the party at Camden Place, now radiant with happiness. She and Wentworth are able to communicate privately, and their engagement is understood by all. Mr. Elliot is present but is now an object of pity rather than interest.
After the party
Anne and Wentworth's Marriage
Anne and Wentworth marry. Sir Walter, impressed by Wentworth's fortune and appearance, gives his consent. Lady Russell, after initial reluctance, comes to admire Wentworth and accepts the match. The couple settles into a happy life, with Anne becoming a sailor's wife.
After Anne's engagement
Mr. Elliot and Mrs. Clay's Departure
Mr. Elliot, thwarted in his plans, leaves Bath. Mrs. Clay soon follows him, and it becomes clear that they have formed a relationship. Sir Walter and Elizabeth are mortified by the deception, but Anne is relieved to be free of Mr. Elliot's machinations.
After the marriage
Wentworth Helps Mrs. Smith
Captain Wentworth, grateful for Mrs. Smith's kindness to Anne, helps her recover her late husband's property in the West Indies. Mrs. Smith's fortunes improve, and she becomes a close friend to the couple.
