Why you shouldn't sleep on Mansfield Park

Mansfield Park seems to be the Austen novel that gets the least love and Fanny Price often gets overlooked in favor of Austen's flashier heroines. In this video, I aim to give you a new perspective on Mansfield Park and why you shouldn't be fooled by Fanny's demure nature.
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[@nhmisnomer]

While reading Persuasion, I suddenly thought of Fanny Prince's mother's life after she married a penniless sailor for love. His potential not panning out and the degrading poverty to follow was the life Persuasion's Lady Russell feared for Anne.

[@AJansenNL]

Great point!

[@alourens4187]

Lady Russell probably assumed sailors to be cut from the same cloth, however Wentworth's character is far superior to the foul-mouthed-drinks-too-much Mr. Price. Even if Mr. Price had money he would not be a good match.

[@miffy891]

Fanny is actually incredible. The amount of pressure that is put on her to marry Crawford! Yet she sticks to her guns. She trusts her spot-on instincts. Also, she was abused, neglected, bullied and made to feel inferior her whole life. She gets anxious, overwhelmed and has low self-esteem. No wonder! Yet, her strength is incredible and she has strong principles. I like her a lot.

[@davidtaylor8478]

As a 15-year'old school-boy, l had Mansfied Park as a set book. I was completely knocked out from page one, I had never read such writing. And here l found a WORLD The other Austen novels (which l loved) were stories. THIS was a world , seen over a period of nearly 30 years

[@lesserknowngems7736]

I remember reading a while back a critique of the modern understanding of Pride and Prejudice, is a form of romantication of Jane Austen. This critique was towards the scene where Charlotte tells Lizzy that she has accepted Mr. Collins. The critique was that modern readers might read this scene as Austen's condemming Charlotte (and therefore any of her readers like Charlotte), when the reality was that most of Austen's readers would be like Charlotte. In her time, it was much more realistic to be a Fanny than a Lizzy, and therefore Fanny in a lot of ways is a stronger character than Lizzy. Lizzy is the fantasy, but Fanny is the reality.

[@rachellesch8681]

I think Mansfield Park and Northanger Abbey are my two favorite Austen novels because all of us Austen fans think we'd be Lizzie Bennet or Emma Woodhouse but in reality, most of us would be Fanny Price or Catherine Moorland.

[@zetizahara]

I don’t know, I think I would be Elinor Dashwood if I were anybody.

[@Cotictimmy]

Yes - Charlotte's is a highly rational mind in operation. It is Lizzy who has to curb her initial disappointment and acknowledge it.

[@Tozischi]

The thing is, Jane Austen WAS Lizzie Bennet. She never married and, whilst most of us would not consider it poverty, she suffered through comparative poverty with her mother when her father died, the exact situation that Lizzie was facing (a £1000 fortune meant each Bennet sister would have an interest of £40-£50 a year to live on). We actually know that Jane Austen was offered marriage by a decently well off man, a man that would have solved all her future problems and fears. And like Charlotte, she accepted his proposal, because prudence and sense told her to. But the next day, she asked to speak to him and broke off the engagement, as she didn't love him and, like Lizzie, could not go through with a marriage for the sake of a comfortable life. Jane Austen knew the wisdom of Charlotte's actions, but when faced with making the same choice, was unable to. And so she ended up as Miss Bates, facing the hardships and economy of Genteel Poverty whilst desperately trying to keep up the facade of respectibility.

[@littlehelphere]

Charlotte was a realist.

[@carolind6264]

Fanny is totally underrated. There is no point in her life where she has agency. She is literally the poor cousin living under the dominion of the much wealthier and more influential Bertrams. What choice does she have but to be quiet and take what is given to her? How can she hate her relatives when she has gained so much? Yet! She is the only person who sticks to what she believes is right. Even when her uncle promotes the marriage with Crawford, she firmly stands her ground, this in spite of the fact that she “owes” him everything. In this moment, how is Fanny different from Elizabeth Bennet refusing Lady Catherine? If anything, it shows Fanny to have an even deeper character than the marvellous Elizabeth.

[@maryhamric]

Agree! Lizzie is headstrong and judgy. She learns, of course. And while Lizzie is a moral person, her morality is not as fully developed as Fanny's.

[@angelicagrills7123]

This is my favorite Austen book. I understand when others say that they don't like it, but it sort of hurts a bit. For me, it was the one book that brought me to tears as I read it and could see how though shy and quiet, Fanny was brave, constant, and resolute... almost like a young Ann Elliot. Maybe I see too much of my own upbringing in it, but I admired such a heroine that did not have to flashy and her true worth slowly became apparent to others.

[@diman5867]

​@@angelicagrills7123 I couldn't agree more! I rarely cry while reading novels, but Mansfield Park is the only Jane Austen novel that has made me tear up.

[@paladin1726]

I think it’s more like her refusal of Mr Collins.

[@meghanthestorygirl4581]

"Fanny knew what was up. And did not become a sucker." Preach! I love Fanny Price she has such a strength of character.

[@meghanthestorygirl4581]

@@i.b.640 So true!

[@bbdarknyss]

True, that's why she deserved better than Edmund.

[@meghanthestorygirl4581]

@@bbdarknyss Haha, agreed!

[@missnodrama11]

I agree 👍

[@jessabelle990]

I read Mansfield Park a few years ago and I actually connected more with Fanny Price on an emotional level than with Lizzie Bennet. Yes, Lizzie is an amazing and witty character and I love her, but as someone who's had low self esteem for a majority of her life, I could relate to Fanny in this way that she always tries to hold true to herself despite what the critics around her say about her.

[@esm1817]

I never much related to Lizzie either. Too witty for me!

[@marinazagrai1623]

Jessica...parents tend to give girls low self esteem by not encouraging them of their self worth. My parents used to introduce us to their friends "this our pretty daughter (me) and this is our smart daughter (sis). I disn't think my prettiness was important, but I always thought I was less intelligent than my sister. As they say beauty fades, but brains remain! As far as Fanny is concerned I don't think she is anything but really smart and had to keep things to herself - how fast would she be thrown out had she told anyone she didn't accept Henry because she caught him and their daughter hanky-pankying!

[@philomenamuinzer4805]

Yes, Jessabelle, I've always thought P & P was essentially an 18th century novel - full of wit, satire and elopements; whereas Mansfield Park is a 19th century novel. It often eschews ready wit and chooses a more realistic kind of commentary (though there is still an elopement). Margaret Drabble said that Fanny is a much more realistic character because Austen allows her the flaw of priggishness. The heroine is one drawn from everyday life - and lacks "spirit" - and yet at the end she is not. She is realised for all the goodness she offers, and attains a happy ending. Someone who wrote in comments once described her as "a steel mouse". Much though I adore P & P, I don't learn more when I read it again - its effects are mainly instant - and yet Mansfield Park repays many readings (to me).

[@ForgivenForever2012]

Interesting point! @philomenamuinzer4805 I've never heard it said like that before. :) Pride and Prejudice was the first Austen book I ever read ( a great classics abridged version when I was about 10 or 12?), so it is a long standing favorite story as my introduction to Austen. ❤ Even though I've read the "real version" 😊 many times, I still find different details or elaborations on story themes, so now I'm curious to do the same with Mansfield park! ❤ I think I read it for the first time a couple years ago, so I'm still a little new to the story in comparison. :) I do agree that I find Fanny a more relatable heroine as well. Even if Fanny doesn't shine as bright as Lizzie, it doesn't mean her story is less valuable or meaningful. I see it as a story of finding your own voice and keeping your convictions and faith even when mostly everyone around you seems to be putting them off for the convenience of the moment. Not a very exciting story but very meaningful. :) And a lot of people in our culture today would call this too narrow, but hopefully we've not forgotten the value in being faithful to what we believe and it doesn't have to be a religious thing. How deep do our commitments run or are we always acting on the surface level? ( Sidenote! I never thought anyone could rival Lady Catherine for mean snobbishness, but oh my goodness Mrs. Norris😄) Now to watch the video!

[@pollyparrot9447]

@@philomenamuinzer4805 That's a good comment. It's a different novel every time you re-read it - there is always something interesting or amusing that you missed previously.

[@leeradford6806]

Thank you for a great promotion of Mansfield Park. I think you nailed what Jane Austen was saying in Mansfield Park. Not only was Fanny strong in overcoming her background and in rejecting Henry, there is something else about Fanny that fascinates me. That is that even though she is quiet and meek, her strength of character slowly becomes the center of gravity for everyone around here. Almost against their will, she comes to quietly dominate the family circle because of her inner strength, her stability, and her genuine love and goodness. She becomes the leader solely because of her good character. And that is why Mansfield Park is not appreciated in a world that values the outside more than the inside. The world today needs more of Fanny.

[@marinazagrai1623]

Lee...where do we start with the nasty Mr Crawford! In his defense, kids who were from wealthy families suffered from a neglect from their mothers (boys need their mothers just as girls need their fathers as a moral support) because after the latter did their duty of delivering children, they wanted to enjoy their lives (most of them were almost 20 by the time their children were born). Henry really wanted to know that he was loved by his wife not that it was just her duty to marry him.

[@aravinds8429]

Mansfield Park

[@aravinds8429]

Mansfield Park

[@aravinds8429]

🗡️

[@marysmith5003]

@@marinazagrai1623 We don't really hear a lot about the parents of Mary and Henry Crawford in the book. They are raised by their aunt and uncle. The uncle is an admiral in the Navy. He is relatively high status because the Navy was a way of raising the status of people who had not been born to it in that time. We know that Henry was loved by his uncle while the aunt took Mary to be her favorite and we also know there was a bad marriage between the aunt and the uncle that may have had an effect upon the children. We read at the conclusion of the book that Henry's fault was that he engaged too long in the cold-blooded freaks of vanity. And to really understand what that means one might need to read the book again and to observe his behavior and its effect on Fanny altho it was not directed at her. When he really noticed her and fell in love with her, it was too late because she had already watched and knew who he was. The word constancy figures heavily in her rejection, with the subtext that Fanny's own constancy toward her cousin Edmund figures heavily in her rejection of the wealthy Henry.

[@prieten49]

I admire Jane Austen so much for the diverse characters of her heroines. Eleonore is the calm, steady older sister. Lizzie is the firebrand intimidator. Emma is the overconfident loose cannon who gets tamed. Anne is the long suffering second fiddle whose compassion for others shines through. Fanny is the underestimated, timid poor relation, but the only one who sees the brewing storm most clearly. All the heroines have a goodness which is eventually rewarded when they get their man. These tales of women overcoming adversity (or in the case of Emma, overcoming herself), doing good, and achieving a happy outcome are excellent morality tales.

[@stephanicrandall7797]

Mansfield Park has always been my favorite book of Austen's. I love all of her books but to me, Mansfield Park is her deepest, most complex book. I think it's hard for modern day readers to understand because it is about virtue and goodness and simply doing what is right. My favorite scene in all of Austen's books is when she needs to stand up to her uncle and refuse to marry Mr. Crawford. She was terrified of her uncle; terrified of being a burden, but she had to do what she knew was right. Thank-you so much for this review!!

[@paladin1726]

And it was a good explanation of why she couldn’t list her reasons. If Julia would’ve just come home, this whole matter could’ve been cleared up with few tears!

[@cathipalmer8217]

I love Fanny Price. She is one of my two favorite Austen characters (along with Anne Elliot). Mice of steel, they are. It often seems to me that people's real problem with Mansfield Park is because it rubs up against modern sexual mores.

[@kimp7160]

That is my take as well. We have to understand the morals as Austen and her readers would have. And that steadfastness to principle is a universal quality.

[@kattkatt744]

Coming at you a year late, but I agree, Fanny Price and Anne Elliot are the best Austen characters. I feel Anne is maybe even more overlooked than Fanny as Fanny gets a lot of backlash, but is at least talked about, while I see very little Anne discourse. Mice of steel is a very good description of them.

[@jandianderson6336]

@@kattkatt744 They are some of my favorites as well.

[@Scarletl8e]

Love that phrase, "mice of steel", and am totally stealing it!

[@esm1817]

Mice of steel! Yes! And I have always aspired to be like them! 😂

[@AngelicaNerd]

As a person who grew up being emotionally (and sometimes even phisically) abused, I can totally understand Fanny and relate to her. I see why some people might not like this book so much, but to say Fanny is not a strong young woman is a huge misinterpretation. Thank you so much for this explenation of her character. 💖

[@Zaft_K]

Fanny is an introverted young woman who has been emotionally abused for years. She is economically disadvantaged ( to say the least ) unless the Bertrams provide her with some kind of dowry. In other words, she is much more like the typical young woman of the day than any other Austen heroine. Despite this, she is clear eyed about the good and bad points of the people around her. She is strong in her beliefs and morals. The more time I spend with Fanny, the more I like and appreciate her.

[@yuppers1]

Fanny, as someone who was taken from her family to be raised by and among narcissists and sociopaths, maintains control of her values and free-will where it really counts. She is also clear-eyed enough to spot who she can trust (Edmund). I think she is to be commended for holding on and getting her life to come out all right in the end- her story could have ended in so many different and darker ways.

[@paladin1726]

I think this is a fascinating novel that lends itself thoroughly to misinterpretation. You could walk down the cast of characters and have very interesting things to say about each psychologically.

[@ariellagoichman3513]

Thank you for this! I often find that we live in an age where we expect absolute - as you call it - "axe wielding" feminism from our heroines, forgetting that they lived in an age before equal rights or even human rights. Not only that but they can't all be Lizzie Bennet, who in herself is exceptionally outstanding for her time: an educated woman who actually has her father's back to educate herself and NOT marry the rich cousin. And that is the huge difference between Lizzie and Fannie : Lizzie is way more privileged - she has a loving (if somewhat quirky) family, an educated father who supports her ambitions and her outspoken character and she's described as pretty. Fannie is practically a pauper who lives with a condescending family which doesn't consider her an equal (because she really isn't by the convention of the time). She has a drunken father, and is described as physically weak and not particularly pretty. So she's awesome for just surviving these circumstances in the early 19th century ❤️

[@marinazagrai1623]

Ariella...Lizzy is a gentleman's daughter just as Anne is. Cathy is just silly, but Fannie is a different breed altogether - it may be that since her mother didn't come from a poor family (her hubby spent her dowry) so she had been somewhat educated (otherwise, her uncle wouldn't have married her aunt!) so she definitely inherited her mother's genes. There is so much going on inside the many layers of Jane's topic. Analysis of any one book of hers would take up enough room for a chapter or two (or maybe more 🧐🤩)!

[@paulaa.4034]

Thank you for this! Mansfield Park is my favorite Austen novel, and I think it is a pity that readers underestimate Fany Price just because she is an introverted character.

[@abookolive]

My pleasure, Paula! Thanks so much for watching.

[@lylagranberg3035]

Readers overlooked the fact that introverts has this Incredible ability to discern the real character of people behind the superficial and the facades through their powers of silent observation.

[@eirrenia]

I realize this comment is way late, but THANK YOU for your defense of this wonderful heroine. I find that many people overlook the quiet heroes of literature, but really it is that same calm, deeply rooted, “I will not be moved”, moral strength that is desperately needed in this world that won’t stop yelling and insulting long enough to hear each other speak.

[@esm1817]

THANK YOU!!! The first time I read Mansfield Park I had a lot of the same thoughts...only to be horrified by learning that most people in the literary world thought Fanny was a weak character. Just because she isn't the modern, smart-mouthed, cliched version of strength we are (I believe, somewhat wrongly) accustomed to?! That injustice enrages me. So again, thank you.

[@branwen1463]

The true brilliance of Austen's work is how as you grow as a person uncovers more and more in her stories. When I was a teen I fell into Pride and Prejudice and as everyone else was swept away. I read the other stories but it was clear to me that P&P was the best. As I grew older and revisited the stories, that began to shift. A few years ago I re-read Mansfield Park and was completely charmed. The quiet dignity of perseverance. To endure and thrive not because anyone wishes you to, not for praise, but because that is simply what you wish to do, is beautiful. Fanny Price does not fit the modern mold of a "strong female character", I don't think she fit the mold in Austen's time either, but I have met and loved gentle women like Fanny Price in my life, and I am sure other readers have as well. It is a different kind of strength but no less worthy and something to cherish. And refreshing to see. Anyways, loved this review. Will be looking more into your channel!

[@maggiepie765]

amen to this! Naturally my first fave book from Austen was P&P too, but diving into her other works I found that I related more to both Anne Elliot and Fanny Price vs Lizzy Bennet. There’s something in Persuasion and Mansfield Park’s quiet and strong perseverance that just relates and reverberates in me. In a world that’s full of anxiety and is super fast paced, I think all of us can do with just a little bit of the quiet and strong characteristics of both Anne and Fanny.

[@lynwebster]

I completely agree with you. Fanny is heroic and Jane Austen is as brilliant and insightful here as in any of her other novels. Her characters are amazingly real and recognisable even in a very different era. Can't you just see the Crawfords as internet sensations?

[@esm1817]

I totally just pictured them as the Kardashians. Yuck. 😵 This will cement my dislike for both.

[@marinazagrai1623]

Lyn...when taking into account the similarities between their era and ours or any other era.

[@samanthawallbrown9243]

Thank you so much! To me, Fanny Price has always been the Cinderella of the Regency Era and of Austen’s books. Fanny’s strength is that she doesn’t give in to what others are doing around her, just for the sake of doing it. She has a quiet strength; while other Austen characters have no problems telling off other characters, Fanny knows that she can’t dissuade them, and learns along the way that it actually isn’t her business in doing so. We see throughout the book how the most terrible characters fall into their own traps based on not controlling themselves: Maria Rushworth, Mrs. Norris, the Crawfords, etc. And Fanny is then recognized for ability to quietly not yield. Sometimes, strength isn’t calling someone out or verbally standing up for yourself, but just having the strength to endure and get through things, as life is tough and there are instances where you have to endure the worst to get to the best.

[@Chesh35]

I loved this book! And I can't see how and why most people feel that its a lackluster compared to her other novels! Fanny is definitely a strong character, I think our current viewpoint of feminism (or rather pseudo feminism) has created this image of an outgoing, rebellious and not-taking-shit kind of a woman, which isn't the only idea of an empowered woman according to me.

[@thegreatestmels5391]

Very well said! I was really surprised at people's reaction to Fanny Price because I feel like if you underestimate her strength you have missed the point of the novel. As you said: "You will find strength in unexpected places" is the message of this novel for me and Austen does a wonderful job at highlighting this. I think Fanny's lack of ego alienates people, particularly in times like these when flaunting yourself is very popular. More than any of the other characters she shows an ability to bypass her ego which people misinterpret as a weakness. However, it becomes clear that Fanny is not a weak character, when she stands her ground in refusing Crawford. I'd say there are very few people who would have the same strength that she has in staying true to herself under such difficult circumstances. It is all the more impressive because earlier in the book we learn about her that she is generally very obliging and hates to disappoint people, especially Sir Thomas, to whom she feels very much indebted. So we know how much pressure is on her and how difficult it must have been for her to remain true to her feelings in this situation. She may not be a loud or feisty character, but she is strong and knows to stand up for herself when it really matters. The subtle way in which Austen makes those observations is brilliant. It is no Pride and Prejudice, but I really enjoyed it nonetheless. I takes some very good writing to come up with something as profound, subtle and intelligent as Mansfield Park.

[@mariehill2590]

I'm reading Mansfield Park now and loving it. I had to go live with my Aunt and Uncle at the age of 7 and was always considered less than my cousins. Now I'm an adult and it's still hard for me to speak up because of my childhood. Sometimes in public my anxiety gets so bad I can hardly speak at all. For me, Fanny's story is very relatable. Except for the part of her falling in love with her cousin 😵

[@CafeCynthia]

Oh my goodness!!! BEST review EVER!! You're thoughts on this novel are amazing, so well put together and just fantastic!

[@uttkarshtyagi5098]

Truu

[@trishg8852]

Agree!

[@alexmatthewmom]

Nice. Good to see a positive review of Fanny. I wish modern readers would stop looking at her through a modern eye. Fanny has no dowry. By refusing Crawford, she throws herself on the mercy of Sir Thomas during his life and her cousins'generosity thereafter fir her support. Even if she believed Crawford would tom cat around, it took bravery to turn down a secure income and home. As Mary C pointed out, even when he ceased to love her, Crawford would have treated her with liberality.

[@mjrmanson1]

Fanny Price is one of my favorite Jane Austen Characters. Anne Elliot is also a favorite. I can relate to them. While I enjoy Pride and Prejudice I can't I relate to Lizzie Bennet in the same way.

[@kompas29]

I read in JA biographies (including the latest by Lucy Worsley) that her sister Cassandra later remembered that JA contemplated the different ending: Henry Crawford was to reform and gain the love of Fanny. Cassandra herself preferred that ending but JA chose to unite Fanny with Edmund.

[@mrs.manrique7411]

Henry Crawford would have become the main character at that point and Fanny's story arc would need significant changing.

[@edennis3202]

@@mrs.manrique7411 There wouldn't be more story arc. That's why it's called an ending.

[@joannsilkes877]

@@edennis3202 I agree with Emily Manrique; it's not about what would have happened afterward (because you're right, there is no "afterward" portrayed) but about how Austen would have had to change the story all along. If Henry were to reform and end up with Fanny, the story would have needed to be reworked throughout to get Fanny to that point, as well. Personally, I agree with Cassandra - much prefer that Fanny and Edmund ended up together.

[@lisaashpole8066]

@@joannsilkes877 I think Jane Austen actually very neatly includes how that would have played out in a scene after the affair comes out. In an alternate reality where the affair didn't happen, Edmond would marry Mary and Henry would eventually persuade Fanny to marry him.

[@PruWillDo]

Changing the coupling would have ruined the story and the characters. Really love that she ended up with Edmund.

[@howardresnick1830]

Thank you for this excellent analysis. Fanny is indeed a heroine. I will only add that in my view, Fanny longed to return to Mansfield Park not only because the Bertrams were 'her people,' but also because Fanny, like other Austen heroines, deeply values the peace and beauty of the country. Fanny laments when she thinks she will miss the beautiful spring at Mansfield. Compare this to Lizzy Bennet's profound appreciation of the natural beauty, unspoiled by human meddling, of Pemberley. Consider Anne Eliot's deep appreciation of the moody beauty of autumn, and her dislike of noisy Bath. So, Fanny was not attached to the opulence of Mansfield Park, but she did surely miss its natural beauty, and its orderliness. But thanks again for an excellent defense of Fanny,.

[@TheFamilyVonPapp]

Mansfield Park is my wife’s absolute favorite of Jane Austen’s books to read and absolutely loves listening to the audiobook read by Juliet Stevenson. Literally can’t count the total number of times she’s re-listened to it. She says the characters are deeper, the psychological, moral and emotional narrative behind them is more varied and complex than the other novels. That it explores much more into the individual personalities of the whole cast since it has a narrower cast and less than a handful of “set changes” so you feel like you get to know everyone more intimately than in her other works. Plus, as someone who was often shunned and mocked by her social peers for having a different moral standard of conduct, especially during her late high school/early college age years, she finds Fanny more realistic and relatable than a lot of Austen’s other leading ladies. She can understand the struggle of repeatedly having to choose between social acceptance and standing up for what you believe is right.

[@judithstrachan9399]

I’m with your wife all the way: my family moved a lot & I never felt comfortable with my (clique-ey) schoolfellows, with my firmer morals. I read S & S before P & P, & it was my favourite until MP. I just adored Fanny & related to her so much.

[@helenavalentine9718]

Just found this. I agree completely. Mansfield Park and Fanny are among my favorite Austen creations. There is more meaningful growth in more characters than any other Austen book. Fanny sticks to her values without preaching to others like Mary Bennet. She suffers abuse from her family while being good, helpful,and respectful, like Anne Elliot. Yet she is human, feeling love, jealousy and frustration. Well,worth the read.

[@kasumicelestia]

I have always loved Mansfield Park. It's second to Persuasion in my rankings. I loved this analysis of her character. She has always struck me as stronger than some of the other women in Austen's works, because of her high moral ground and belief in her own rightness. To persist in refusing Henry in spite of the obvious and manifold advantages that she would have gained.. most women in those days wouldn't have done it. The same way that Maria knew Mr. Rushworth was an idiot, but married him anyway because of his wealth. Fanny is rewarded in the end with having Edmund's love returned.

[@MissCaraMint]

Oh yes I absolutely adored Persuasion.

[@katiejlumsden]

YES! I love Mansfield Park and so, so enjoyed this video. I agree with everything you say. Fanny is one of my favourite characters - she is so strong in herself and so much cleverer than all those around her.

[@abookolive]

I need to go back and watch your video on Mansfield Park! I saw you had one and wanted to watch it so badly, but I didn't want to accidentally knick any of your ideas as I was brainstorming this video. But now that this is up I can watch! Yayyyyyyyyyy *scurries away*

[@kirikincell8294]

I'm so glad you read and loved Mansfield Park. People really hate on it, but it's one of my favorite Austen novels. Fanny's depth of insight and strength of resolve make her such a wonderful character. You make me want to reread it!

[@cmm5542]

It's so funny - I don't really love Mansfield Park, though I certainly don't hate it, but I see far more comments online from people who love it than hate it! Personal experience I guess?

[@unfabgirl]

Yes to ALL of this. Mansfield Park is my favorite (with Northanger Abbey a close second) and Fanny is one of my favorite characters of all time. Aside from everything you said, I also have to include her subtle wit (such as when she notes that Mrs. Norris would have been better suited to her mother's life, needing to keep herself busy and her mother's lack of energy fitting in with Mrs. Bertram's company much better.) It is so easy for her to be overshadowed (even most people I know that enjoy this book prefer Mary. Don't get me wrong, she is awesome in a lot of ways, but she was never meant to be the hero of the story like a lot of people think.) So, when she does shine, it is all the more powerful because she is the same quietly strong woman. She doesn't have a CInderella moment, despite her coming out ball. She doesn't get swept off her feet, despite her family trying to get her to let Henry do so. She resists and is ultimately rewarded with her imperfect, but happy ending, which is what she wanted. If she went with Henry and if he even manages to be improved like he claims, she still would not have been happy because it was not what she wanted. It was what everyone else wanted for her. She is willing to be subservient. She is willing to be mortifyingly grateful. She is willing to do everything required of her, despite her health. But when it comes to her own happiness, she is only willing to do what she believes in her heart is the right course of action--the imperfect, hard-working route that is ultimately more rewarding. Especially compared to Maria, who goes with the easy route every time. Maria could have not gotten married. She could have waited for proper love. Instead, she went along with what people wanted for her until it led to her destruction. This kinda got away from me. Needless to say, I have some strong feelings about Mansfield Park and Fanny Price and don't often find people that agree on her likeability. If you've read this far, thank you.

[@lovetolovefairytales]

Fantastic comment. I agree with everything you said.

[@Janstone77]

Excellent observations!

[@kathisdaughter598]

Mansfield Park is my favorite of all her books!! It is sweet and I love the calm attraction, that develops over time. I relate to her personality much more that the others, though I have aspects of several of Jane Austen's characters.

[@melaniesorensen9998]

It's my favorite of her books. The writing is superb. She builds and builds on plot and character development and culminates in a satisfying outcome.

[@jackiesliterarycorner]

I consider Mansfield Park one of my favorite of Austen's so far and I related to Fanny personality wise. Luckily, I have a wonderful family. I also compare Fanny to Jane Eyre. Both are reserved, stay true to who they are, and have not such great relatives. The big difference is Jane Eyre escapes her wicked relatives and finds another family who appreciates her. They also both have love interests that aren't the best, but its the kind of both girls want in the end. Rochester is the only man to have passionate love for Jane, and Edmund shows kindness and affection towards Fanny the moment she arrived at Mansfield.

[@pmarkhill519]

You’re absolutely right. Quiet strength without a lot of splash is still strength, and character!

[@TullaRask]

I love Fanny for her high morals and understanding of her surroundings. She has a quiet and calm strength that is often misunderstood.

[@stefs3460]

Mansfield park and Persuasion are my 2 favorites! They're followed by Sense and Sensibility , Northanger Abby, Pride and Predudice closely followed by Emma.

[@mthespinner]

Mansfield Park is my favorite Austen novel, closely followed by Persuasion. Fanny is quiet and introverted, but the only one in the novel that sees clearly and has the courage to act on the truth Love it!

[@ellie_sarabellum]

This is a wonderful defense for Fanny. I think people forget that Fanny literally cannot be an Elizabeth or like Austen's other heroines as her situation is vastly different. Elizabeth's family wasn't in poverty like Fanny's, she was born into a decently financially stable home. Elizabeth had servants. Fanny was a servant. Instantly, their stories and abilities would be different. Fanny was raised in servitude for her own survival. Being docile and amiable were her greatest strengths. Being outspoken and feisty like Elizabeth would've gotten Fanny sent back to poverty to who knows what end. Fanny is not inferior to Elizabeth. She's simply a different telling of those times.

[@kelvina7927]

agreed wholeheartedly. Also Fanny's background could have easily led her to be a Lucy Steele but she chooses differently and that makes her a very strong character to emulate

[@lovetolovefairytales]

"family member telling you you're lucky to be there, how your cousins are so much better than you that it's not even funny" -- well, actually, sad to say, no word of a lie, that was my whole childhood. No wonder I loved Fanny so much and rooted for her reading mansfield park.

[@joditc]

Thank you for defending Fanny. I agree with everything you said and with all the great comments. This has always been one of my favorites, so it makes me feel so good that there is a community of people that also get it! 😍

[@judegrindvoll8467]

Wow thank you for such a thoughtful review! One of the reasons that Mansfield Park fell a little short for me compared to her other five novels is that Fanny doesn't experience the 'overcoming of character flaws' that her other heroines go through. But I think reading this for a second time without being clouded by that expectation will be a much more rewarding experience for me so I'll definitely be putting that on my summer TBR :) By the way you are very good at defending unpopular books - more please!

[@bigcolt5256]

Enjoyed this very much. Won't bother adding to the mountains of praise out there for Aunt Jane. So glad she existed and wrote those novels.

[@MinestroneChad]

I recently made a video about some Austen novels I've read, Mansfield Park being one of them, and I received a comment telling me to watch this video. I can't explain how vehemently I agree, or thank you enough for being so eloquent in the defence of Fanny. I adore her character with all I am, and it makes me so glad to see the argument put across in a strong, unyielding way from someone else who greatly admires her. Thank you! ❤️

[@abookolive]

Oh I'm so glad you loved her, too! I feel so protective over her since reading it. I think the book intentionally makes it easier to overlook Fanny since that's precisely what everyone does to her in the book, but if you can look deeper, you're rewarded with this quietly robust character overflowing with kindness. It makes me so happy hearing that other people have seen her for who she is as well ❤

[@tasnimnaz7109]

Your videos make me want to drop everything and read all day.

[@abookolive]

If only we all could 😞

[@ThatsSoPoe]

Agreed! I found Mansfield Park to be one of the more memorable Jane Austen novels especially because of its commentary on morality and colonialism.

[@cathryncampbell8555]

Thank you for an engaging analysis of Mansfield Park. I have always thought of Fanny Price as roughly equivalent to The Lady in Milton's masque, "Comus." Although The Lady is fixed to a chair throughout most of the masque, everyone else rotates around her. The Lady, like Fanny, is the fixed moral compass point of her universe, representing the virtues of Chastity & Restraint. Such ethical attributes are not as popular in the 21st century as in the 18th, but Jane Austen was after all a clergyman's daughter. Her Fanny is the most *reliable* person in this variation on the Cinderella story.

[@judithstrachan9399]

I’ve just started reading “Pamela” (first English novel?) and, apart from being *awfully* long-winded, Pamela reminds me of Fanny, staying strong & true to herself despite great provocation. (Although I believe her “Henry” is going to reform & provide her happy ending. We’ll see.)

[@janehiswife6793]

I love that Fanny Price's mom, also Fanny(?) may be living the life that Anne Elliott was Persuaded to avoid.

[@kimp7160]

Fanny Price is the Austen heroine I have identified with the most. I wanted to be Elinor Dashwood but I was more like Fanny. And Mansfield Park is in the top half of her books for me. It hits me in the heart each time because it feels like situations I have been in here in the contemporary world. It's less idealized. The romance isn't strong which is perhaps why many don't like it but the study of human character, morality and relationship dynamics is so fascinating and compelling to me.

[@MangaHoarder]

Great review! I couldn't agree more. I've always thought that Fanny Price and Anne Elliott (Persuasion) were Austen's strongest characters. I've always preferred Mansfield Park to P&P... actually P&P is my number 4.

[@English3Muffin]

I just read Mansfield Park for the first time, and I loved it. I will admit that it was a bit of a slow start and took time to get into, but I identified with Fanny from the start. I fully agree with your take. Seeing others’ takes on it, it seems clear to me that people like Fanny just aren’t flashy or fun enough, and thus will continue to be overlooked in life. But that is the strength. Reminds me a bit of The Perks of Being a Wallflower. Similar characters, both meek and quiet and quite honestly both traumatized by familial abuse, but their strength is in those quiet yet strong morals and in how incredibly perceptive the quiet observer is. I do think Mansfield Park was unfortunately destined to be the overlooked child that Fanny was. But goodness was Austen brilliant at reading people and bringing these types of characters to life. Love Mansfield Park.

[@caroline3272]

Amazing video! I was one of them who wanted so hard that she loved Henry... but then I read the part when she was talking with Edmund and says that she doesn't know that was obliged to love a men just because he decided to love her... she is a girl power, just in her own way!

[@marshaprice8226]

Thank you so much for this analysis of Fanny's character! I read Mansfield Park many years ago and did not care for it. Then I did not have the experience to appreciate who Fanny is. I am going to read the book again with new eyes because of this video.

[@luke28]

Thank you so much for this excellent and well thought out review! I always thought Fanny was a very underestimated character as she presents a certain (moral) depth and wisdom that is quite unique for Austens main characters, in my opinion.

[@ForgivenForever2012]

"We know Fanny is hiding stuff from us. But what she can't hide is her resiliency." !!!! Shout out to all the introverts ❤❤😅❤

[@r.l.e.4985]

My favorite Jane Austen book.

[@abookolive]

It's a very close second favorite for me! I adored it, but Pride and Prejudice will always be my fave.

[@topologyrob]

Me too

[@kimp7160]

I think Emma is my favourite but Mansfield is near the top. Persuasion is another great one. Pride and Prejudice was the book of my youth. Mansfield Park feels so familiar. I was so like Fanny that the first time I read the novel it almost hurt a little. I recognized that feeling of sitting on the outside, being discounted and insecure socially but the few friends I had often complained I couldn't be convinced to do anything I thought was wrong. I had more physical endurance (I loved hiking for hours) but otherwise I can identify with much of her inner thought work.

[@ElizabethJones-pv3sj]

I've just found your channel and I agree so much. I recently watched a video about Cinderella and how the people who want her to stand up to her abusive family and blame her for being too passive are straight up engaging in victim blaming. Fanny is in pretty much exactly the same situation as Cinderella she has been emotionally abused since childhood and is in a situation of absolutely zero power as you mentioned people who survive abuse do so by being as invisible as possible and going along with what their abuser wants. Yet still she uses the one and only power she has, the power to refuse her consent (to the play and to marriage with Mr Crawford) when it matters to her sense of what is right.

[@izabellarodrigues1026]

I´ve seen a video criticizing Fanny, calling her "boring", "with no personality"... I´m so glad to see your video! How could Fanny shown her own personality, when she was constantily told her needs were not important, and everything about her was inferior? I think the young Fanny quickly understood that beeing subservient and kind was the only way she could survive, as "she was sent away by her mama". She was strong enough to keep her sipirit pure. I guess presenting us a "no personality Fanny" (not that I agree with this) is just another brilliant Jane Austen´s move

[@dearyvettetn4489]

I just finished reading Mansfield Park and yes, Fannie price is highly underrated if you judge her based on today’s standards of girl boss individuality and feminist sensibilities. Pushing back against her aunt and uncle in their home would have eventually earned here a ride back to Portsmouth far earlier than her actual visit, and maybe permanently. As someone who grew up poor and had the opportunity to stay with better-off relatives I can relate. It’s not the time to be airing your grievances about how you feel you deserve to be treated, unless your being abused which is more of an option today that it was in the early 1800s. Fanny is one of my favorite Austen heroines because she is similar to Elinore Dashwood, who is my favorite because she is principled and has a unshakable sense of honor even when it doesn’t serve her. Thank you for standing up for Fanny Price.

[@kayel4487]

Well said! You've nailed why Fanny is my favorite Austen heroine. Her strength of character and humility is admirable!

[@abookolive]

Thank you! She's an incredible character with well...incredible character!

[@vilwarin5635]

I disagree. Fanny not only rejected Henry because of her moral strenght, she also was holding a candle for Edmund. Austen herself said that if Edmund marries Mary, Fanny would had accepted Henry

[@jordanwitt4696]

The passage in question was more referring to if Henry has actually maintained his self-improvement. If he had genuinely tried to become a better person a la Mr. Darcy, then it is reasonable to suggest that he might have succeeded. However, Henry's journey to become better is solely based around winning Fanny with no regard to his actual character, and THAT'S what makes him a villain. On the other hand, Mr. Darcy betters himself and tries to keep the knowledge of his efforts away from Lizzie, believing he had already lost his chance with her. Instead, he realizes that he has behaved wrongly and wants to improve because deep down, he is a good person. I think its really interesting how Darcy and Crawford are polar opposites, seeing as the books were released one after the other.

[@vilwarin5635]

@@jordanwitt4696 I see your point , althought don´t agree 100%. (please, don´t be upset, is so fun to discuss Austen´s books with other people). I agree that Darcy wanted to improve himself and help others, however, he had the perfect opportunity to help Lydia and the Bennets, whether Henry didn´t had no-one to help. The only thing he could do was be agreable with Fanny and her family, which he did. Darcy however, only was more agreable with Lizzy and her aund and uncle, but I don´t recall him been nicer to her parents or even her sister Jane, to the point that even Jane thought Lizzy was marrying for money instead of love. However, everyone around Fanny knew Henry was interested/loved her. Lastly, Darcy wasn´t in love with anyone else (sorry Miss Bingley), while Henry still had feelings for Maria, and the first time he saw her he was pretty upset at Fanny´s refusal to marry him. (I´m not condoning cheating, but I understand the reason and feelings of Maria and Henry at that moment). Appart from that, I don´t see how Henry could had improved his image and character more, unless he did a 360 and entered the Church, donated all his possessions and became Edmund 1.2. Anyhow, the ending was perfect anyway. I don´t thing Edmund or Fanny would be perfectly happy with other people, and that´s what matter!

[@jordanwitt4696]

@@vilwarin5635 Well, Henry did actually help Fanny's family. He was the one who secured William's promotion, using his influence as the ward of Admiral Crawford. However, he repeatedly alluded to his influence to Fanny as a reason she should be grateful to him, as opposed to Darcy, who tried to keep his actions a secret. Also, the narrative says that the only reason Henry pursues Maria was because she was, at first, resistant and cold to him due to her own hurt feelings. Henry, after being solidly refused by Fanny yet again, is really just trying to "win." At this point, he was really trying to soothe his own bruised ego, with no real regard for Maria. In a sense, he was really pulling a Wickham, tarnishing the reputation of Fanny's relative in an act of revenge against someone who saw right through him. However, I agree. All's well that ends well! At least Fanny is vindicated in the end!

[@squishcar2]

Thanks for this review! I loved this book and really wanted to hear a discussion on it. A couple times I wished so hard that characters would act differently. 1. That Fanny would accept Crawford because he was truly changing because of his love for her (though I am sure it wouldn't last after they were married) and 2. That Crawford would check himself from his vanity pursuits and give in to his desire to be with someone like Fanny and thus change his morality as he had begun to. There were moments that showed his changing, like when he visits Fanny's old home and acts so kindly to her poor family, as well as noticing her ill health in that place, and offering to take her back to Mansfield when she wants, and his talk of helping the poor and getting his business affairs run by a more honest person. If he had continued on this path, I think he could have begun to persuade his sister to follow. Mary also had a desire for higher morals (only unconciously) as evidenced by her saying to Fanny how much she valued her friendship because she could relax and just be herself, and didnt feel coerced to be otherwise. I think she needed much more guidance because her personality was so built on looking good and her advice so flawed from basic morality that I'm sure Edmund was right in supposing her taught badly growing up. I feel sad for the Crawfords because they had a chance to reform though Fanny and Edmund and they didnt persevere to do so. I do think Fanny and Edmund are good together but they could have been just as good brother and sister. I liked Henry's lively spirit and how it actually enlivened Fanny a couple times, and I hoped he would be as good spouse for her as she for him by their differences complementing each other. We never got to see Mary's full self as she always had those airs about her, but I was curious what would come out, and I think it could have been good with Edmund if it had been a loving, gracious benefactor type character.

[@judithstrachan9399]

I suspect Mary’s ambitious tendencies would have urged Edmund to be less caring for his flock in pursuit of advancement (I’m sure she’d prefer to be a bishop’s wife!) & would have made him miserable because he would prefer to be a simple, caring parson. I also agree that Henry’s reformation would have not survived long past the honeymoon, unless he abandoned all his old friends. He had too little resolution of his own to resist temptation.

[@icuvids]

Amazing book but getting together with Edmund towards the end should have been more detailed, it was too abrupt. But overall an amazing book and certainly deserves more attention

[@kittlee3704]

We all wish we were Elizabeth, but most of us have to live like Fanny. We live with unfair disadvantage and nasty people who we can’t talk back to-or else! Fanny shows how to still live with dignity and act with honor in these circumstances.

[@milkafinland]

For years, Mansfield Park has been my favorite Austen novel after P&P and I definitely agree with your thoughts on Fanny. If you like watching adaptations you should check out the BBC miniseries from like the 80s - it really spends time on the character development similarly to the book.

[@domusardet4961]

Thank you! You nailed it! Fanny seems very passive & submissive, but it turns out that she is the rock that holds the Bertrams together. Modern readers are so used to the opposite that they completely miss her strengths. Well, and most people today roll their eyes at virtuous characters when the truth is that's where it's all derived. The book always leaves me torn between wanting to be a better person - & wanting to smack Aunt Norris around. A lot. Lol

[@olive3700]

I read somewhere that Austen's own favorite was Fanny. Thank you for defending her, she is strong, patient, kind and loyal.

[@DreamofTea]

Love Mansfield Park and Persuasion... these are so underrated!❤️

[@OjaswiShxrma]

Great analysis. I was hugely impressed by your in depth reading of her character.

[@carole5648]

Mansfield park is one of my favs. Persuasion, Mansfield park then pride and prejudice. If I was going to write off an Austen it would be Northhanger Abbey

[@lovetolovefairytales]

Oh but northanger abbey is a good story too!

[@doverelementary1411]

@@lovetolovefairytales Completely agree. I like the Bath part- the Thorpes are hilarious and awful and I love Henry Tilney but the Abbey part is not my cup of tea.

[@judithstrachan9399]

I think the awful Thorpes are the main reason I’m not fond of NA. Although Carey Mulligan was a priceless Isabella.

[@theemarydee1610]

It really warmed my heart that one fanny got a chance to be with somebody who really loved her and her brother came to visit and their correspondence all of that was so sweet and that she can completely be herself and have a reason to be happy I love that part of the book

[@littlehelphere]

I like Mansfield Park. It shows how Jane Austin's maturity as a writer.

[@MarilynMayaMendoza]

I remember loving Mansfield Park and didn’t know the controversy back in the 70s. I didn’t watch the whole video because I wanted to re-read it. But from what I’ve watched it’s a great review. Aloha

[@awakenyourlifeyoga7929]

I’m slowly making my way through all of Jane Austen’s works this year and just finished Mansfield Park. I have yet to read P&P, but I ADORED Mansfield Park. Initially I thought I wouldn’t like it but the more I read, the more I fell in love with the story Jane Austen was telling, the vibrancy of the characters, and with Fanny. And I’ve never audibly exclaimed so much in reading a book before. :P I loved your thoughts on Fanny and would love to see more on your other thoughts concerning Mansfield Park! There’s not a lot of positive content out there. :P Thanks for the video!

[@nanno8483]

Fanny IS a heroine! We watch her come unto herself after a drama filled life. Being given away by her mother, severed from every relationship she had ever known. Living with the insults, and treated as a servant. Fanny was not insipid she was still that crushed child. We watch her blossom into bravery and get the ending she deserved! Read it again, not judging it against Austen's other works but on it's own merit

[@mingjumingju]

I think Mansfield Park shows the most maturity of Jane Austen because the growth of main character Fanny Price is clearly shown - from a timid girl who is so fragile to a woman who stood her ground despite criticisms. This book is also notable for darkness because Jane Austen clearly labeled Mrs. Norris as ''evil'', unlike other characters before where she shows some gray areas and some understandable demeanor. It's also a book which will make you think of who you are as a decision maker because it shows all the players of a decision making process: the easily swayed Edmund, the trickster Henry, the liberal Maria, the bystander Mrs. Bertram and so on. There so much in this book more than critics can say all for once.

[@ourmaddworld3326]

Amazing video! Mansfield park is my favorite! You explained everything so well! Can you please make a video about Emma? I feel like she is so misunderstood. People always depict her as stupid and spoiled. When I see a devoted friend and daughter who doesn’t believe in the societal standards they’re forced to comply with. I would actually love if you made a video about each of the Jane Austen heroines. Anne Eliot and maryanne especially.

[@tracys169]

Honestly, I was smitten by Fanny Price first before Elizabeth Bennet. While I like Lizzie, I find that I do relate more with quiet characters. Plus I started with Mansfield Park then Emma, then Pride and Prejudice lol. The last one I read was Northanger Abbey...although my fave has always been Persuasion :D

[@carly9077]

Best review ever. I completely agree with you. Fanny knows her worth, she just doesn't need nor want to be praised for that. About aunt Norris, all characters found her irritating and ignored her, even her nieces, so I dont see what the big problem with Fanny not fighting back is either. Respect was a fundamental value at that time, so responding to an elder relative was not part of the manners she was raised with and it wouldn be reallistic. I really would like to hear your thoughts on Edmund, another debatable character..

[@KadyAz17]

I'm so glad you understood Fanny and you're sticking up for her! I know Lizzie Bennett Diaries is super popular, but there's a great webseries called From Mansfield, With Love that's a modern update of this novel. ✌️❤️

[@katiehamilton3915]

From Mansfield, with Love is my ABSOLUTE FAVORITE JA WEBSERIES-- HANDS. DOWN!!! I love that afeptation SO much and think it (as awesome as LBD is!) is better than all the others- it is SO well thought and fleshed out and they do NOT make Fanny- or Henry or Ed or Mary or Rea or Rory- one dimensional. You need to know your comment made me SO happy 😊😭💕🙌🏻 I am SO THRILLED FMWL is loved and appreciated by other people too!!!!!!!!!!!

[@KeepQuirky]

Loved your review! I was frustrated by Fanny’s meekness through the front half of the book, but I grew to be greatly impressed by her as a character. Her moral fortitude, kindness, clear-eyed judgment, and commitment to making the choices truest to her head and heart are all qualities that make her incredibly endearing and admirable. (My only complaint about her choices is that Edmund isn’t good enough for her, in my eyes, but at least he wasn’t a cad like Crawford.) I found this novel genuinely compelling, though it was quite a different reading experience from “Pride and Prejudice.”

[@AvidreaderMusicLover]

Love this evaluation of Fanny's character and true strength and what Austen was telling us through this story. I agree wholeheartedly that she shows immense inner strength and steadfast virtue. While P&P was my first Austen and most loved in my youth, as I grow older, I find myself drawn more to Persuasion and Mansfield Park.

[@staceyeskelin6859]

Marvelous review! I loved every minute. I feel EXACTLY this way about Mansfield Park, which is why I rank it above Emma and just below P&P. I will never understand why more people don't see Fanny Price as the true Austen heroine she is. Brava!

[@cagodinez]

What a thoughtful review! Makes me appreciate the novel and Jane Austen even more.

[@arcticponeyss]

I just finished reading MP and I agree with everything you just said. Thank you for this and keep up with the good work!

[@abookolive]

Thanks!

[@maggiepie765]

OMG - thank youuu so much for this analysis and to say I agree with everything you said is an understatement! I myself can’t believe most Austen readers dislike her character out of all her heroines. Fanny Price is 1/2 of my fave Austen characters (the other is Persuasion’s Anne) - everr. Yes, she was meek and feeble, but she’s an excellent judge of character, and she has a strong mind, heart & will. She has endured harsh words and actions towards her with great fortitude and patience since she was a little girl. If that’s not strong I don’t know what is. For me, what makes Mansfield Park so close to my heart is how the story and it’s realism still stays relevant to this day. At the end of the day, we live our lives being guided by our morals and principles. It’s what help us to distinguish and do what is right or just vs from what is wrong.

[@vikiirnawenzel1722]

Thank you for this! Though it took me a couple of readings, this is long been my favorite Austen novel, which says a lot indeed. Sometimes holding firm is the greatest struggle of all, and I admire Austen so much for being able to capture it. Then, as years went by and my chronic illness became worse, I could relate to Fanny on that level as well. (Indeed, since mine is genetic, I have this whole theory that both Lady Bertram and Mrs. Price struggle with milder versions of Fanny's weakness. And, as Austen points out, it is only the good fortune of wealth that allows Lady Bertram's invisible disability to be so respectable.). I really wish there could be an adaptation of the novel that captures Fanny struggles with infirmity. But apparently all the screenwriters share most novelists' fear of a physically limited heroine?

[@FHMS97]

omg i loved this video!! you so articulately got at so many of the aspects that make fanny the interesting and strong character that she is. i think especially in a novel where so many characters (henry, the bertram sisters) are used to easily getting what (and who) they want, fanny is all the more noteworthy for her steadfast resistance to having her will trampelled by them. the biggest shock to sir thomas bertram is not only that fanny will not accept henry, but that she in fact cannot and will not accept any attempts of his or the other bertrams to persuade her. surprise! fanny is a human being with agency!

[@dannyjimenez4545]

I loved MP since the first time I read it, it became of my second favorite novel of Jane Austen. I always try to defend this amazing book, and specially Fanny Price. Unfortunally no many people seem to appreciate this brilliant book. You have done it perfectly!! I exceedingly loved your review and your opinion about this book. It has impressed me, I agree with all you said and I happy to see there are people who like MP ❤️

[@abookolive]

Thank you so much!

[@bookoffholicbookwart5945]

I remember watching this video 3 years ago and was absolutely blown by your review. Now, since I've read Mansfield Park, I'm even more excited to rewatch this

[@trinadubya3406]

I agree entirely, and I have a suggestion to add: My aunt married very well. She was brought up in an abusive home, genteel but poor. Her husband was the son of a successful businessman who taught school and also worked on his father's sales floor. From the start, my aunt felt like she wasn't as good as them because of her upbringing, but she couldn't show it. She had to be more of everything they were to prove she belonged. Fanny Price was told and shown that she would never be on her cousins' level. Tom, Edmund, Maria, and Julia could relax, because they had nothing to prove. They were born to wealth and privilege, and they have a lot of leeway. Fanny had to show she was worth the expense and trouble (little as it was) of bringing her to Mansfield Park and raising her. Hence her vigilance and constant good behavior. One toe out of line, and Sir Thomas might say, "What could we expect of her, given her parentage?" and send her back to Portsmouth. Just my two cents.

[@Wilsonn_esquire]

Love your analysis! I couldn't agree with you more. Mansfield is my favorite Austen after P&P. I don't half-suspect that she wrote Mansfield as the anti-type to so much of what she put into P&P. They are her two most brilliantly conceived and exactingly executed works.

[@byronsbrain]

I must read Mansfield Park.... fab review!

[@marenmogstad3233]

can i just say, the introduction of this video is soooooo good!! you managed to promote the book in the most perfect way. So glad to finally see some Mansfield love!

[@guywolff]

Fanny has a moral compass of steel ...She is one of my favorite people in all of Austen's world ..I have a hard time with Emma ..Jane has a wonderful sense of humor and an incredibly strong capacity to forgive ...I just revisited this clip and am interested to hear you didnt mention Fanny's secret love for Edmond that is central to everything she does . As far as her sense of responsibility gose and her actions show ( plot motitvasion) she is ready to be of use to her aunt Lady Bertram above all else but she is deeply in love with Edmond ...

[@ForgivenForever2012]

Yes! I so agree about 4:15ish. What strength of character as you said to not grow bitter and selfish about how you are treated and to always want to do what's best for the family who's treated you more like a servant than a cousin. Fanny is like a hidden gem, you might not notice at first but when you look deeper she shines just the same but maybe at a richer level? :) I feel like you have to dig a little deeper to get the treasure, but it's worth it. Not as flashy but seems maybe more enduring? in my opinion. :) Do love a good pride and prejudice Netherfield scene myself, so there are merits to both. Let's enjoy them all. 😁

[@lesleywilliams1210]

Thank you! I wish some of the film-makers would realise this (and what some other KZbin reviewers have said) and do justice to the book. There is plenty there that with the right screenwriter, would make a decent production. The 1983 mini-series is the best adaptation so far. The others changed so much that I was appalled by them.

[@ainathiel]

Thanks for this video. I have only watched live-action films of Mansfield Park. I did not know that Fanny Price was sickly. It is a safe bet that she was suffering from malnutrition. What I liked about the story is that everyone is miserable and Fanny is the most stable person.

[@franciscaesteva3930]

Thank you so much for you comments.How I enjoyed listening to you. An the icing on the cake: You speak so clearly whereas others talk too fast and with impossible accents.By the way,I am re reading Mansfield Park at the moment..Thank you again

[@lauravanderklippe5631]

Mansfield Park is actually one of my favourites of Austen’s books, for so many reasons. Thanks for the video!