Mansfield Park

Mansfield Park, Austen's third published novel, is the most controversial of her major works. Although Regency critics praised its wholesome morality, many modern readers find Fanny's timidity and disapproval of the theatricals difficult to relate to and reject the notion (explicit in the final chapter) that she is a better person for her childhood privations. Austen's mother thought Fanny "insipid", 105] and other readers have found her priggish and unlikable. 106] Critics point out that she is a complex personality, perceptive but given to wishful thinking, and demonstrates courage and greater self-esteem during the latter part of the story. According to Austen biographer Claire Tomalin (who is generally critical of Fanny), "It is in rejecting obedience in favour of the higher dictate of remaining true to her own conscience that Fanny rises to her moment of heroism". 107] Tomalin reflects the ambivalence many readers feel towards the character: "More is made of Fanny Price's faith, which gives her the courage to resist what she thinks is wrong; it also makes her intolerant of sinners, whom she is ready to cast aside.