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This Quick Read edition includes both the full text and a summary for each chapter.
- Reading time of the complete text: about 15 hours
- Reading time of the summarized text: 42 minutes
"Mansfield Park" is a novel by Jane Austen that follows the story of Fanny Price, a young girl sent to live with her wealthy relatives. The novel explores themes of love, jealousy, and morality. Fanny's character is often criticized for being timid and priggish, but she is also seen as a study of the "battered-child syndrome" and a symbol of integrity and compassion. The novel received mixed reviews initially but was successful with the public. It delves into the psychological lives of its characters and tackles issues such as Evangelicalism and British imperialism. Symbolism is prevalent throughout the novel, with locations and events representing deeper meanings. The novel also addresses themes of antitheatricality, sincerity, and the role of clergy in society. The connection between Mansfield Park and slavery is alluded to, with the estate being built on the proceeds of a slave plantation. Critics have debated Austen's stance on slavery, with some arguing that she was an apologist while others believe she opposed it. The novel is seen as a moral dialogue, with conflicting aspects of Austen's own personality represented by the characters of Fanny and Mary Crawford.
