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A character in Persuasion

Who is Mary Musgrove?

By the Library of Alexandria · 2 minute read · Updated 23 Ott 2026

In short

  • Mary Musgrove is Anne Elliot's youngest sister in Persuasion by Jane Austen, married and living at Uppercross.
  • She often feels unwell and neglected, and Anne listens to her complaints during a stay at her cottage.
  • Her marriage to Charles Musgrove connects Anne with the nearby Musgrove family and their country visits.

Who Mary Musgrove is

Mary Musgrove is the youngest of Sir Walter Elliot's three daughters, and she lives at Uppercross Cottage. Her husband, Charles Musgrove, is the son of a nearby landowning family. While her father and Elizabeth leave for Bath, Anne comes to stay with Mary instead of following them at once.

What Mary Musgrove wants

Mary feels that she is unwell and neglected, and her complaints make these concerns part of Anne's visit. She complains about the Musgrove parents, while they complain about her, leaving Anne to listen to both sides. Anne tries to keep the peace, becoming useful in a household where her efforts receive little thanks.

Mary Musgrove and the others in the story

Mary's relationship with Anne brings together family dependence and a lack of attention to Anne's feelings. When Mary repeats Captain Wentworth's remark about Anne's changed appearance, Anne is hurt but keeps the pain to herself.

When Mary's small son is badly hurt, both parents panic and Anne steadies the household. This contrast shows Anne's practical strength beside the sister whose worries so often occupy her.

Questions

Who is Mary Musgrove in Persuasion?

Mary Musgrove is Anne Elliot's youngest sister and Sir Walter Elliot's youngest daughter.

Who is Mary Musgrove married to?

She is married to Charles Musgrove, and they live at Uppercross Cottage.

How does Mary Musgrove treat Anne?

Mary relies on Anne to hear her complaints and help during family trouble. She also passes on a remark from Wentworth that hurts Anne.

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