Edmund and Morality (or Lack Thereof)

Throughout the novel Edmund is presented as the moral center of the household. As the second son forced to make his own fortune, Edmund’s defining characteristic, it seems, is “Christian morality” embedded in his chosen profession.

However, often when convenient it seems his will to enforce said morals weakens and he gives in. Despite having objected to the play initially, he proceeds to take part in it when the opportunity to act opposite Mary arose. He went as far as to justify it by arguing he was doing it for Mary’s benefit, a flimsy excuse at most. At the final rehearsal Edmund even tries to convince Fanny to read Mrs. Grant’s part, blatantly asking her to ignore her dislike of the play. Although he claims otherwise, Fanny’s opinion (/morality) was clearly of not much significance in the matter.

Moreover, Mary’s disdain for Edmund’s chosen profession is no secret either; however, he continues to pursue her. In fact, on more than one occasion she makes it known that she would prefer he not take his vows, convincing him of their poor match. It is not until Edmund’s last meeting with Mary that he truly gives up his pursuit of Mary. It was her justification of Henry’s behavior and general attitude towards the entire scandal that ended things between them. It seems his loyalty towards his family (and by extension Fanny) is what allowed him to change his mind.

It is fairly evident that Edmund does not have strong set of morals when conflict arises. He is conveniently willing to compromise his principles for lust (or his choice of emotion at a given point). He was so intent on “loving” Mary Crawford that he overlooks her admittedly “evil” faults that conflicted with his morals. Edmund’s identity is not Christian morality but rather an opportunistic one.