ANNE'S INSIGHTS & FEELINGS
Why does Anne feel a “sinking heart” when entering Camden Place?
She anticipates months of emotional imprisonment with superficial relatives.
What aspect of their new home gives Sir Walter and Elizabeth the most pride?
Its status and fashionable appearance in Camden Place.
What “official” reason does Mr Elliot give for reconciling with the family?
Misunderstanding and delicacy had supposedly kept him distant.
Why does Elizabeth feel triumph in the size of the drawing rooms?
Space symbolizes social importance in Bath.
What is Mrs Clay’s hidden goal in staying at Camden Place?
To position herself as a potential wife for Sir Walter.
What does Anne find both amusing and surprising when Mr Elliot finally recognizes her?
His genuine shock that she is the same woman he saw at Lyme — revealing he’d never truly noticed her before.
Why are they so eager to reconnect with the Dalrymples?
They crave validation through noble family connections.
Why does Anne doubt his explanation?
As heir, he gains nothing practical from a reconciliation, making his timing strange.
What do Sir Walter’s comments about plain women in Bath reveal about his values?
He judges human worth through physical beauty and superficial appearance.
Why does Mr Elliot “accidentally” visit late in the evening?
To show eagerness and increase intimacy with the Elliots.
Why does Anne doubt the full truth of Sir Walter and Elizabeth’s glowing praise of Mr Elliot?
She suspects their vanity exaggerates his efforts and motives.
Why does Sir Walter praise Mrs Clay’s complexion so excessively?
He is flattered by her attention and blind to her manipulations.
Why does he go to such lengths to charm Sir Walter and Elizabeth?
To secure influence and maintain control over the family’s future choices.
Any other interpretation is accepted!
Why is the Dalrymple connection treated like a crisis?
Maintaining noble links defines their entire social identity.
What motive might Elizabeth have for encouraging Mrs Clay’s hope about Mr Elliot’s interest?
She wants to believe she is the object of his admiration.
What hidden suspicion does Anne form about Mr Elliot’s renewed interest in the family?
That he may be planning to court Elizabeth.
What fear does Anne have about Sir Walter’s attitude toward Mrs Clay?
That he may actually be falling in love with her.
Why might Mr Elliot be especially concerned about Mrs Clay’s closeness to Sir Walter?
Her marrying Sir Walter could jeopardize his inheritance position.
Why is Lady Russell distressed by the household’s treatment of Anne?
Because merit (Anne) is ignored while scheming (Mrs Clay) is rewarded.
Why does Lady Russell initially revise her opinion of Mr Elliot?
His polished manners and sensible behavior hide his true intentions.
Why is Anne uncomfortable discussing the Dalrymples’ arrival, even with Mr Elliot?
Because she sees the obsession with noble cousins as shallow and embarrassing.
Why does Elizabeth so readily dismiss Anne when assuring Mrs Clay she must stay?
Elizabeth values social flattery and companionship over sisterly attachment.
Explain why Mr Elliot’s admiration of “family connection” may not be genuine.
It conveniently aligns with his ambition to control and reshape the Elliot family image - suggesting an ulterior motive beyond affection.
What social expectation prevents Mr Elliot from immediately pursuing anyone romantically?
He is less than seven months widowed — public decorum demands restraint.
Why does Anne compare Mr Elliot’s manners to Captain Wentworth’s?
She recognizes both men as polished, but only one (Wentworth) has sincerity beneath the charm.