Mary Musgrove's Self-Importance

Tracks Mary's hypochondria, her need for attention, and her relationship with her husband and children.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Complaining Wife

The Complaining Wife A Constant Invalid Mary Musgrove is always imagining herself ill. She is prone to hysterics and demands constant attention. She resents being left alone and complains about her husband's neglect. She is a source of irritation to her family. Anne's Arrival Anne's presence at Uppercross is a relief to Mary. She has a companion to complain to and to help with the children. Anne is patient with her, but she finds Mary's self-absorption tiresome.

The Trip to Lyme

The Trip to Lyme A Change of Scene Mary goes to Lyme with the others and enjoys the novelty. She is pleased to be part of the social scene and to be seen as useful. She makes a point of her own importance. The Aftermath of the Accident After Louisa's fall, Mary is hysterical and demands attention. She is jealous of Anne's role in the crisis. She insists on staying at Lyme instead of returning home, claiming that she is needed. Her behaviour is a mixture of genuine concern and self-importance.

A Visit to Bath

A Visit to Bath Enjoying the Splendour Mary is delighted to visit Bath and see the grandeur of Camden Place. She is flattered by the attention she receives from Sir Walter and Elizabeth. She enjoys the social opportunities. Her Reaction to Anne's Engagement Mary is initially jealous of Anne's engagement to Captain Wentworth, but she consoles herself that Anne will not have an estate. She is petty and self-centred, but she is also a part of the family. Her character provides comic relief.

Autumn 1814

November 1814

February 1815