Captain James Benwick is a character in Persuasion. He was affianced to Fanny Harville, the sister of Captain Harville, before her untimely death[1]. Benwick became engaged to Louisa Musgrove[2].
Biography[]
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He served for a time as first lieutenant of the Laconia, a frigate, under Captain Frederick Wentworth. He met Captain Harville, another naval captain, during his career.
He became acquainted with Fanny Harville, the sister of Captain Harville. They developed a very strong attachment to each other. Benwick was devoted to Fanny, and she to him. They became engaged but Benwick wanted to "make his fortune" before they married, so he can provide a good life for Fanny,
Fanny's death[]
Fanny Harville's death devastated Benwick and he became incredibly melancholy. Fanny's death shook Benwick and the Harvilles, who considered him as a brother and husband of Harville's sister. They became an even tighter family even though they were not related by marriage. Benwick lived with the Harvilles[1].
New romance[]
Benwick became acquainted with Louisa Musgrove when she and her family went on holiday in Lyme, and he saw her near fatal accident. Benwick also developed a friendship with Anne Elliot, who recommended books to him and tried to bring him out of his melancholy somewhat. Anne then left for Bath, however. Benwick and Louisa Musgrove then fostered an affection for each other over the course of her recovery in Lyme. He obtained consent to pursue Louisa from her father and proposed. Mary Musgrove informed Anne of this in a letter, expressing some annoyance that both Louisa and Henrietta were marrying beneath them. Louisa did better than Henrietta, however, and Mary found this commendable. Since Louisa and Captain Wentworth were appearing to be courting while Anne was staying with the Musgroves, this also heralded Wentworth as a free man once again, delighting Anne[2].
Character traits[]
Benwick is described as an excellent young man and officer, and was valued very highly by any who know him[1].