Persuasion

Persuasion is the last novel completed by Jane Austen (1775-1817) before her death. Written between the years 1815-1816 and published posthumously, the Regency-era novel centers on the engagements and marriages of a small circle of middle-class families, with particular attention to the social and private lives of women. Echoing character dynamics found throughout Austen’s works, the romantic protagonists must confront their individual pride before fully realizing their relationship. It has been adapted for television, film, theater, and radio, including the 2022 Netflix film starring Dakota Johnson.

Austen is best known for her six major novels: Sense and Sensibility (1811), Pride and Prejudice (1813), Mansfield Park (1814), Emma (1815), Northanger Abbey (written 1803, published posthumously 1817), and Persuasion. Although Austen had modest success during her lifetime, her works became celebrated after her death due to their humor, social commentary, and emotional realism.

This guide references the 1998 Penguin Classics edition of Persuasion.

Plot Summary

After many years of poor financial management, the once affluent Elliot family must alleviate their debt.