Abstract and Key Words

Abstract: Mansfield Park is a full-length novel written by Jane Austen which has caused enormous disputes. Moral issue in the novel is the focus of most disputes. Based on an analysis of some major characters’ views on marriage as well as their choices of spouses, the author of this thesis draws the conclusion that rationality which characterizes Fanny Price in the novel eventually wins irrationality represented by other characters.

Key words: Mansfield Park; Fanny Price; Rationality; Irrationality

摘要：《曼斯菲尔德庄园》是简•奥斯汀的一部长篇小说。这部小说引起了极大的争议，小说中的道德问题是所有争议的焦点。以这本小说为依据，对主要男女主人公的婚姻观以及对配偶的选择进行分析，本论文得出结论：理性的代表人物芬妮最终战胜了其他非理性的代表人物。

关键词：《曼斯菲尔德庄园》；芬妮•普莱斯；理性；非理性

1. Introduction
1.1 Introduction to Mansfield Park
   Mansfield Park is a full-length novel written by Jane Austen. It was written at Chawton Cottage between 1812 and 1814 and published in July 1814. This work has caused enormous disputes. Moral issue in the novel is the focus of most disputes.
When Fanny Price is ten, she is taken to the Mansfield Park because her parents could not afford to raise her. From then on, she is raised by her rich relatives, Sir Thomas and Lady Bertram. She grows up with her four cousins, Tom Bertram, Edmund Bertram, Maria Bertram and Julia Bertram., but is treated unfairly; only Edmund shows his kindness to her. Over time, Fanny converts her gratitude into love.
Sir Thomas has to leave for quite some time so he could handle on his business in Antigua. At that time, the fashionable Henry Crawford and his sister Mary Crawford come to Mansfield. Henry plays with the affections of both Maria and Julia, despite Maria being already engaged to Mr. Rushworth. Mary is beautiful and charming，Edmund is deeply attracted by her.
Encouraged by Tom and his friend Mr. Yates, the young people decides to put on the famous play Lovers’ vows. Both Edmund and Fanny oppose to the plan, feeling that the theme of the play is not appropriate. Eventually, Edmund gives in and plays the role of Anhalt. The play does not only give Mary and Edmund a chance to talk about love and marriage, but also provides a pretext for Henry and Maria to flirt in public. In the middle of a rehearsal, Sir Thomas arrives unexpectedly, so the plan is forced to end. Shortly after the left of Henry, Maria realizes that Henry does not love her. Then, she decides to marry Mr. Rushworth, and they leave for Brighton, including Julia.