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C PERSUASION – Jane Austen (i) Identify and discuss a variety of insights you gained into the subject of identity through your engagement with Austen’s novel, Persuasion - Leaving Cert English - Question C - 2019
Question C
C PERSUASION – Jane Austen (i) Identify and discuss a variety of insights you gained into the subject of identity through your engagement with Austen’s novel, Pe... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:C PERSUASION – Jane Austen (i) Identify and discuss a variety of insights you gained into the subject of identity through your engagement with Austen’s novel, Persuasion - Leaving Cert English - Question C - 2019
Step 1
Identify and discuss a variety of insights you gained into the subject of identity through your engagement with Austen’s novel, Persuasion.
Answer
In Jane Austen's Persuasion, identity is intricately linked to social status, marital status, and one's age. The characters navigate a world where personal identity is often overshadowed by societal expectations. For instance, Anne Elliot's sense of self is deeply affected by her status as an unmarried woman, and her relationship with Captain Wentworth showcases this struggle.
Moreover, identity can evolve in response to personal growth and crisis. Anne's journey reveals how one's true identity can emerge through moments of conflict, largely driven by her decisions and regrets regarding love and social standing. Austen skillfully highlights how societal conventions can constrain personal identity, as seen through characters like Lady Russell, who represents the rigid adherence to societal norms.
Overall, my engagement with Persuasion has unearthed insights into how these factors intertwine, influencing the characters’ identities throughout the novel.
Step 2
“The female characters in Austen’s novel, Persuasion, fail each other.”
Answer
I partially agree with the statement regarding the female characters in Persuasion. While it is true that some characters, like Mrs. Smith and Anne, demonstrate solidarity, others like Lady Russell and Lydia sometimes undermine each other through their actions.
For example, Lady Russell's advice reflects a blend of caring and control, which can hinder Anne's agency. Their complex relationship often oscillates between support and limitation. Additionally, the social hierarchies and personal ambitions can lead to misaligned interests among female characters, creating tension and conflict.
Nevertheless, the female characters also exhibit deep emotional bonds and shared experiences that foster understanding and empathy. Thus, while there are instances of failure among them, it is essential to recognize the multifaceted relationships that exist in Austen’s portrayal of female characters.