Mansfield Park

In Chapter 25, Austen uses the card game of Speculation to symbolize her characters’ differing values and approaches to life. Playing the game well requires a spirit of ruthless competitiveness and greed—traits that the novel associates with London's modern, individualistic values. Consequently, the Crawfords are experienced and skillful players, while Fanny is unfamiliar with the game. Fanny understands the rules but, even with Henry’s help, lacks the bold, self-serving attitude Speculation demands. Henry’s unsuccessful attempts to “sharpen her avarice, and harden her heart” illustrate Fanny’s stability of character, foreshadowing Henry’s unsuccessful attempts to persuade her to marry him (248). Meanwhile, Mary demonstrates a contrasting ambition and competitiveness in her determination to win, whatever the cost. Her style of play emphasizes that Mary views her relationship with Edmund as a game she intends to win. She is set on not only marrying him but persuading him into an alternative career.

During the trip to Sotherton, the incident with the locked gate is charged with symbolic meaning. Maria perceives the gate as an obstacle standing in the way of what she wants. Her wish to see the landscape beyond represents her unexpressed desire to break free from the restrictions of her engagement.