logo

63 pages 2 hours read

Mansfield Park

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1814

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Book Brief

logo
Jane Austen

Mansfield Park

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1814
Book Details
Pages

488

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • Early 19th Century

Publication Year

1814

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

In Mansfield Park, Fanny Price, a girl from a poor family, is sent to live with her wealthy relatives, the Bertrams, at Mansfield Park. The story follows Fanny's growth and struggles in her new environment, dealing with moral challenges, societal expectations, and her clandestine love for her cousin Edmund. Set in Regency-era England, the novel explores themes of stability versus change, virtue and vice, and love, money, and marriage. The novel features references to colonial exploitation and enslavement.

Romantic

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.1

368,244 ratings

67%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Mansfield Park by Jane Austen receives mixed reviews. Positively, readers praise Austen's nuanced portrayal of social class and morality, and the depth of her characters. Some, however, find the protagonist, Fanny Price, less compelling and the pacing slower compared to Austen's other works. Overall, it's appreciated for its complex themes and rich detail.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Mansfield Park?

A reader who enjoys Mansfield Park by Jane Austen is likely a fan of classic literature, keen on exploring themes of social class, morality, and personal growth. Similar to fans of Pride and Prejudice by Austen and Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë, they appreciate intricate character development, romantic subplots, and insightful commentary on 19th-century British society.

4.1

368,244 ratings

67%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Fanny Price

Fanny is a shy and morally upright young woman brought to live with her wealthy relatives, the Bertrams, at Mansfield Park. As she navigates her new environment, her principled nature often puts her at odds with those around her.

The patriarch of Mansfield Park and Fanny's uncle, he represents order and tradition. Sir Thomas's management of both his family and the estate play a pivotal role in the unfolding events.

Fanny's indolent aunt and Sir Thomas's wife, her life of leisure is financed by her husband's wealth. She is often detached from the management of her household and indifferent to the issues around her.

Fanny’s other aunt and Lady Bertram's elder sister, she is a miserly and manipulative figure who frequently mistreats Fanny. Despite initiating Fanny’s move to Mansfield Park, she consistently reminds her of her lesser status.

The eldest Bertram son and heir to Mansfield Park, Tom leads a carefree and spending-heavy life. His irresponsible actions spur various plot developments during his father’s absence.

The younger son of the Bertram family and one of Fanny's closest allies, Edmund is earnest and aims to enter the clergy. As her confidant, his relationship with Fanny is a central element of the narrative.

Maria is the eldest daughter of Sir Thomas and Lady Bertram, characterized by her beauty and desire for wealth and status. Her decisions significantly impact the social dynamics at Mansfield Park.

The younger daughter of Sir Thomas and Lady Bertram, Julia shares her sister's vanity and is often caught in the midst of familial and romantic intrigues. Her actions reflect a desire for independence.

A charming and charismatic gentleman, Henry captivates the attention of the Bertram sisters. His role in the narrative revolves around the disruption he brings to the established order at Mansfield Park.

Henry's witty and lively sister, who contrasts sharply with Fanny’s character. Her charm and social skills influence several characters, particularly Edmund.

Maria's wealthy but dull fiancé. Though financially well-off, his lack of personal insight makes him a figure susceptible to manipulation.

The clergyman of Mansfield parish, he is distinct from Edmund in his approach to his role, reflecting a broader commentary on the clergy of the period.

Dr. Grant’s wife and Mary and Henry Crawford's half-sister, she introduces her siblings to the Bertrams. Her presence facilitates several key developments in the story.

Fanny's father, a former Navy Lieutenant, whose shortcomings make it difficult for him to support his large family. His character contrasts with the more affluent Bertrams.

Fanny’s mother and Lady Bertram's sister, she married beneath her social standing and struggles with the consequences. Her situation highlights themes of social mobility and economic status.

Fanny’s beloved older brother, whose naval career showcases a different lifestyle and set of values. His relationship with Fanny remains close despite their separation.

Fanny’s younger sister, whom Fanny reconnects with during a return to her family. Susan’s spirited nature and shared dislike for their household’s disorder foster a bond between the sisters.

A friend of Tom Bertram from London, he is instrumental in introducing theatricals at Mansfield Park. His character represents the influence of urban attitudes and values.

Book Details
Pages

488

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • Early 19th Century

Publication Year

1814

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.