Mansfield Park (Easy Classics)
Short Classics Series
What’s inside...
A simplified and engaging adaptation of Jane Austen's classic novel, Mansfield Park, tailored for children. The story follows the journey of Fanny Price, a young girl from a poor family, who is sent to live with her wealthy relatives at Mansfield Park. As she grows up, she navigates the complexities of relationships and social expectations.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did Fanny's experiences at Mansfield Park change her, and what qualities do you admire most about her?
What lessons can be learned from the way different characters treat each other in the story?
How do the choices made by characters like Edmund and Maria show their values?
What do you think makes a house feel like a home, based on the settings in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare their own experiences with friendships and family to those of Fanny, highlighting both similarities and differences.
Discuss the concept of 'right' and 'wrong' with your child using characters' actions as examples, asking them what they would have done differently and why.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings for the story based on different choices that characters might have made.
Use a map to explore the geography of the setting, helping to place the story in a physical context that can be more easily grasped.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Integrity
Explanation: In 'Mansfield Park,' the protagonist Fanny Price consistently demonstrates integrity by sticking to her moral convictions, despite various pressures and temptations.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to stay true to their values and make the right choices, even when faced with peer pressure or challenging situations.
Example Lesson: Consequences of Actions
Explanation: Throughout the novel, characters who make selfish or thoughtless decisions often face negative outcomes, illustrating the idea that actions have consequences.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to think about the potential effects of their actions on themselves and others, promoting responsibility.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Fanny's ability to empathize with others, even when they treat her poorly, highlights the importance of understanding and compassion.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to consider the feelings and perspectives of others, improving their social interactions and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: Fanny faces numerous challenges throughout the book, from poverty to emotional manipulation, yet she remains strong and resilient.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of perseverance and resilience in overcoming obstacles in their lives.
Example Lesson: Value of Education
Explanation: Fanny's self-education and love for reading significantly contribute to her character development and moral grounding.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to pursue learning and see education as a tool for personal growth and moral refinement.