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Agnes Grey, Chapter 21 summary

Chapter 21 of 25 · 10 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 21, Agnes joins her mother in running their school, but her unanswered hopes of hearing from Edward Weston undermine her health until she resolves to focus on her duties. An urgent invitation from Rosalie Ashby draws her away for a short visit, with a renewed possibility of hearing about Weston.

What happens

  1. Agnes joins her mother at A——, where their school begins with three boarders and six day pupils.
  2. A visiting music teacher and a letter from Mary disappoint Agnes because she hopes for contact from Edward Weston.
  3. As Weston remains silent, Agnes loses hope, appetite, and strength, and her mother notices her misery.
  4. Agnes resolves to serve her mother and pupils rather than dwell on her own unhappiness, and her health improves.
  5. Rosalie Ashby writes from Ashby Park, urgently requesting company and describing her household, baby, and possessions.
  6. With her mother's encouragement, Agnes accepts a short visit, hoping to help Rosalie and perhaps hear about Weston.

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In this chapter

What to notice

Rosalie admits that obtaining her desired home does not provide the happiness she expects. This supports Agnes's suspicion that the urgent invitation reflects unhappiness.

Quick check

Why does Agnes limit her intended stay at Ashby Park?

Cite this page

“Agnes Grey, Chapter 21 summary.” Library of Alexandria, 2026, libraryofalexandria.com/pages/agnes-grey-chapter-21-summary.

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