Thoughts About Why Anne Is One Of My Favorite Jane Austen Characters Of All Time

     We all know I have a deep rooted love for Ms. Jane Austen. She is a fierce writer who can often be heard of interjecting her own thoughts and ideologies into her stories. As such, she very much displays herself in her character Anne Elliot of Persuasion. Anne is a feminine young woman who has many thoughts and opinions that are not classic of women in this time period. She is witty, smart mouthed and headstrong. Although she once had, and arguably still does, have a love for Frederick Wentworth, she does not feel as if she ever needs a man in order to complete her. (Yay for JA adding that detail in, we love to see it). Many women of the time are catty and seek a higher standing on society. Anne, however, is perfectly comfortable with herself in whole. She is smart and caring, often displaying that to those around her. 

    Anne is often persuaded (hence the title, ahem) throughout the novel. Although some may see this as a flaw, it genuinely might be one of her best traits. Lady Russell had managed to convince Anne that marrying Frederick Wentworth at such a young stage in life would be a bad idea. Anne followed this judgement even when she felt a genuine care for him. Anne's affection continues for some time, seemingly until he comes home from the Navy as Captain Wentworth. He comments upon her appearance, saying she has not changed for the better. His rude comments are nearly omitted from her mind. She is aware of the fact she should marry someone who is of equal of greater value to herself, and she understands why. On the other hand, she still never feels the need to. The conclusion of the novel, which i will not spoil for those who have not yet read it, leaves the reader wondering if Anne's ability to be persuaded is not a flaw at all. Did she make the right choice in following Lady Russell's suggestions? Does she find happiness after all? Anne is a young woman with a mind of her own. Although persuaded at times by those she is close to, she does not allow society to change the way she thinks, who she is, or how she feels.