Persuasion

Pride drives the behaviors of nearly every character in the novel, albeit in different forms. The dreaded “Elliot pride” (82) that Louisa describes to Wentworth during their brief courtship is a cause for complaint from both parties, and Wentworth knows all too well the pride that drives the Elliot family to disdain anyone without a family title, land, and affluent connections. Ironically, it is Wentworth’s own pride that prevents him from proposing to Anne again once he has attained the wealth and social status that make him a more socially desirable suitor. Austen portrays pride as an obstacle, a feeling that prevents kindness, honesty, and intimacy.

Sir Walter’s character represents this kind of pride to a comical degree. In response to Anne’s friendship with Mrs. Smith, Sir Walter reacts as if she has entered into a degrading and revolting relationship: “Everything that revolts other people, low company, paltry rooms, foul air, disgusting associations are inviting to you” (148). The worst thing imaginable for Sir Walter and Elizabeth, the two pinnacles of the Elliot pride, is the threat of “low company,” despite keeping Mrs. Clay in their company precisely because her flattery appeals to their selfishness and pride.

To lesser degrees, Mary and Lady Russell exhibit this same pride of class.