Who Captain Frederick Wentworth is
Captain Frederick Wentworth returns to Anne Elliot's neighbourhood as a wealthy and respected naval officer. When they first fall in love, he has neither fortune nor family connections. Eight years later, his success at sea changes his circumstances, but does not erase his resentment.
What Captain Frederick Wentworth wants
Wentworth wants to marry, and he openly values a woman who knows her own mind. Anne hears his praise of firmness as a judgment on her decision to break their engagement. His cool politeness keeps their shared past beneath the surface of ordinary conversations.
Captain Frederick Wentworth and the others in the story
Lady Russell persuades Anne to give him up because she fears his uncertain prospects. He returns to visit his sister, Mrs Croft, whose husband rents the Elliot family home. At Uppercross, Henrietta and Louisa Musgrove admire him, and Louisa begins to attract his attention.
How Captain Frederick Wentworth changes
Wentworth notices Anne's practical ability when Mary's injured child needs care and the household needs steadying. At Lyme, another accident makes him turn to Anne for help amid the panic. Her calm judgment challenges his belief that yielding to advice means lacking strength.
A best-known line
“You pierce my soul. I am half agony, half hope.”
Questions
Who is Captain Frederick Wentworth?
He is a successful naval officer and Anne Elliot's former fiance in Persuasion.
Why is Wentworth hurt by Anne?
He has not forgiven her for ending their engagement after listening to Lady Russell's advice.
What does Wentworth value in a wife?
He values strength of mind, though Anne's quiet capability begins to broaden his understanding of it.