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Definition of Motif
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the central themes of a book... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of... read full definition
Key Examples in Mansfield Park
Chapter 3
Explanation and Analysis—Alcoholism and Addiction:
Addiction appears in the novel a few times, forming a motif. As a motif, addiction suggests a character is weak-willed and ill-mannered, and also ties them to the vices present in urban life. For example, Fanny’s cousin Tom is addicted to alcohol and gambling and also cares only about himself. Tom’s father Sir Thomas Bertram states this directly in Chapter 3 after he is forced to use money reserved for Edmund to pay off Tom’s gambling debts:
“I blush for you, Tom,” said he, in his most dignified manner; “I blush for the expedient which I am driven on, and I trust I may pity your feelings as a brother on the occasion. You have robbed Edmund for ten, twenty, thirty years, perhaps for life, of more than half the income which ought to be his […] Nothing can, in fact, be an equivalent for the certain advantage which he is now obliged to forego through the urgency of your debts.”
Related Themes:
Chapter 15
Explanation and Analysis—Acting:
Acting comes up at several points throughout the novel, forming a motif. As a motif, acting denotes deceit and hidden motives. As the most moral character in Mansfield Park, Fanny is often the only one who can see beneath other peoples’ performances.
Related Themes:
Chapter 34
Explanation and Analysis—Acting:
Acting comes up at several points throughout the novel, forming a motif. As a motif, acting denotes deceit and hidden motives. As the most moral character in Mansfield Park, Fanny is often the only one who can see beneath other peoples’ performances.
Related Themes:
Chapter 39
Explanation and Analysis—Alcoholism and Addiction:
Addiction appears in the novel a few times, forming a motif. As a motif, addiction suggests a character is weak-willed and ill-mannered, and also ties them to the vices present in urban life. For example, Fanny’s cousin Tom is addicted to alcohol and gambling and also cares only about himself. Tom’s father Sir Thomas Bertram states this directly in Chapter 3 after he is forced to use money reserved for Edmund to pay off Tom’s gambling debts:
Unlock with LitCharts A+“I blush for you, Tom,” said he, in his most dignified manner; “I blush for the expedient which I am driven on, and I trust I may pity your feelings as a brother on the occasion. You have robbed Edmund for ten, twenty, thirty years, perhaps for life, of more than half the income which ought to be his […] Nothing can, in fact, be an equivalent for the certain advantage which he is now obliged to forego through the urgency of your debts.”
Related Themes:
