Who Anne Elliot is
Anne Elliot receives little attention from her father, Sir Walter Elliot, or her elder sister, Elizabeth Elliot. While they value rank and appearance, she shows her worth through care for other people.
Anne Elliot and the others in the story
Lady Russell loves Anne like a daughter and advises her against marrying a young officer without money or connections. Anne trusts her judgment and breaks her engagement to Wentworth, though her love for him remains.
Eight years later, Wentworth returns with wealth and a reputation earned at sea, but treats Anne with cool politeness. Their meetings carry the weight of a shared past that neither can easily discuss.
How Anne Elliot changes
At Uppercross, Anne listens to family complaints, keeps the peace and helps when Mary's small son is hurt. Her quiet manner conceals a steadiness that becomes clearer when other people lose their composure.
During an accident at Lyme, she gives practical orders and sends for a surgeon while others panic. Wentworth begins to see a strength in her that his resentment has kept him from recognizing.
Best-known lines
“You pierce my soul. I am half agony, half hope.”
“All the privilege I claim for my own sex is that of loving longest, when existence or when hope is gone.”
Questions
How old is Anne Elliot?
Anne is twenty-seven when she meets Wentworth again, eight years after their broken engagement.
Why does Anne Elliot give up Wentworth?
She follows Lady Russell's advice because she trusts her and believes she is doing right. Lady Russell considers Wentworth's uncertain naval career and lack of money a risk to Anne's future.
Does Anne Elliot still love Wentworth?
Yes, Anne continues to love him throughout their years apart. When he returns, she keeps much of her feeling hidden behind a calm face.