Abstract
This presentation examines the heroine and hero of Jane Austen’s novel Northanger Abbey, exposing their inequality in temperament, intelligence, and discernment, while questioning the true motivations for their attachment. Catherine Morland and Henry Tilney are not separated by wealth, class, or other social expectations, but by their critically dissimilar personalities. Although Catherine is inferior to Tilney in every sense, the novel promotes the couple’s romance and marriage. Tilney’s affection does not stem from his acceptance of Catherine as an equal, but from his perception of her affection for him. This paper explores the polarity of the two characters in light of the outmoded idea that love is not contingent on compatibility but on commitment and strength of will.
Faculty Sponsors
Dr. Suzanne Ferriss
Project Type
Event
Location
Alvin Sherman Library
Start Date
4-4-2014 1:00 PM
End Date
4-4-2014 5:30 PM
An Incompatible Romance
Alvin Sherman Library
This presentation examines the heroine and hero of Jane Austen’s novel Northanger Abbey, exposing their inequality in temperament, intelligence, and discernment, while questioning the true motivations for their attachment. Catherine Morland and Henry Tilney are not separated by wealth, class, or other social expectations, but by their critically dissimilar personalities. Although Catherine is inferior to Tilney in every sense, the novel promotes the couple’s romance and marriage. Tilney’s affection does not stem from his acceptance of Catherine as an equal, but from his perception of her affection for him. This paper explores the polarity of the two characters in light of the outmoded idea that love is not contingent on compatibility but on commitment and strength of will.
