Chapter 1 Summary

This chapter lays the foundation for the plot of the novel by introducing the Dashwood family. Henry Dashwood and his daughters from a second marriage have moved into Norland Estate to care for Henry's ailing uncle. Henry had hoped to provide for his wife and daughters by inheriting the Estate, but when the uncle dies it is revealed that Henry's son John from a previous marriage has a son named Harry who will eventually inherit the estate. We also learn that Harry has earned this estate by being clever and charming during a visit to Norland Estate.

When Henry falls ill, it becomes clear that he only has 10,000 pounds for his wife and daughters. He calls John to his bedside and asks him to support his stepmother and his sisters. Austen reveals to the reader that John is not a bad person but...