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Lady Russell had only to listen composedly, and wish them…

“Lady Russell had only to listen composedly, and wish them happy, but internally her heart revelled in angry pleasure, in pleased contempt, that the man who at twenty-three had seemed to understand somewhat of the value of an Anne Elliot, should, eight years afterwards, be charmed by a Louisa…” quote by Jane Austen
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““Lady Russell had only to listen composedly, and wish them happy, but internally her heart revelled in angry pleasure, in pleased contempt, that the man who at twenty-three had seemed to understand somewhat of the value of an Anne Elliot, should, eight years afterwards, be charmed by a Louisa Musgrove.””

Jane Austen

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Lady Russell pretends to be polite while secretly feeling angry satisfaction at a man's changed affection after years.

In simple terms: She hides contempt while outwardly wishing happiness.

Key Takeaway

Recognize hidden emotions in social interactions.

Themes

social etiquette hidden emotions class dynamics

Mood

irritated reflective critical

Type

literary observational social commentary

When to use this quote

  • family gatherings
  • marriage negotiations
  • social events
  • personal reflections

Key Concepts

pride resentment social expectation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you handle polite façades that mask true feelings?
  • What risks arise from judging others based on past impressions?
A Different Perspective

She may misjudge the man's character, leading to unfair judgment.

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