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Consider the implications of the title, Persuasion Essay

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Consider the implications of the title, Persuasion “Something intended to induce belief or action” is how the Oxford Dictionary defines the term persuasion. To consider the implications of the title successfully, it is essential that we first understand the term persuasion within the context of the novel. The Oxford Dictionary also defines the term ‘persuade’ as “to successfully urge a person to do; to talk into or out of an action”, “to attract, lure or entice” or as “to talk earnestly with a person to secure agreement or compliance.” By these definitions we can notice that the concept of persuasion is ever-present throughout Austen’s novel. One of Austen’s traits is that her titles appear to offer some indication towards …show more content…

One example we can draw upon is that of Louisa’s fall on the Cobb; “He (Wentworth) advised her against it…he reasoned and talked in vain…she was too precipitate by half a second, she fell on the pavement on the lower Cobb, and was taken lifeless!” This shows Louisa’s wilful refusal to succumb to the persuasion of Captain Wentworth. At first, this incident appears grave, but we realise that Louisa will survive, as Austen would not make so light of a fatality. This unfortunate accident develops into a form of beneficial persuasion as it leads to Louisa’s marriage to Benwick. Due to this reasoning, it can be concluded that persuasion can be seen as neither a good or bad thing, merely that it carries beneficial and unfavourable consequences. The nature of persuasion in the novel is another area of Austen’s writing which we must consider when reading ‘Persuasion’. In accordance with the definition of ‘persuade’ being; “to talk earnestly with a person to secure agreement or compliance” can we not see debate as a form of persuasion? We see debate in the guise of Anne and Harville when they discuss men and women’s fidelity; “it would not be the nature of any woman who truly loved.’ Captain Harville smiled, as much to say ‘Do you claim that for your sex?’” We also see forms of self-persuasion in the novel as Anne listens to Mrs. Smith before forming her judgement of Mr. Elliot; “Mr.

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