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Northanger Abbey, Chapter 4 summary

Chapter 4 of 31 · 6 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 4, Catherine hopes to meet Mr. Tilney at the pump-room, but his absence gives way to a new acquaintance when Mrs. Allen meets Mrs. Thorpe, an old school friend. Catherine quickly grows attached to Isabella Thorpe, whose confidence and fashionable knowledge distract her from her disappointment.

What happens

  1. Catherine searches the pump-room for Mr. Tilney, but he does not appear.
  2. Mrs. Thorpe recognizes Mrs. Allen, and the former school friends exchange family news while barely listening to each other.
  3. Mrs. Thorpe introduces her daughters, who recognize Catherine through their acquaintance with her brother, James Morland.
  4. Isabella walks with Catherine and impresses her with her knowledge of fashion, balls, and social behavior.
  5. The young women part affectionately outside Mr. Allen’s house and expect to see each other at the theater and chapel.
  6. The narrator describes Mrs. Thorpe’s limited wealth and indulgent parenting, and her younger daughters’ imitation of Isabella.

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In this chapter

CatherineIsabellaJohn ThorpeGeneral TilneyJames

What to notice

The narrator links Catherine’s disappointment over Mr. Tilney with her sudden enthusiasm for Isabella. The line marks the shift in her attention.

Quick check

How do the Thorpes already know Catherine’s brother?

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