31st Annual Student Research Conference
Mansfield Park and the Subtle Condemnation of Slavery
Samuel D. Andrzejewski
Dr. Hena Ahmad, Faculty Mentor
This paper analyzes Edward Said's claim in his book Culture and Imperialism that Austen, a member of the middle class in England, cannot possibly represent the suffering of the Antiguan people, as reflected in her novel, Mansfield Park. He further notes how Thomas Bertram's slave plantation is oddly necessary to the elegance of Mansfield Park, which is described in moral and aesthetic ways despite its true nature. While Said claims her position in society hinders her from properly representing the Antiguans, Austen's portrayal of English society brings attention to the atrocities of slavery committed by the oppressors.
Keywords: Mansfield Park, Jane Austen, Edward Said
Topic(s):English
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 303-2
Location: MG 1096
Time: 1:15