Chapter 6 Summary

Though they are at first sad at having to leave Norland the Dashwoods are soon happy about moving to Barton Cottage, which is described as small but comfortable. The family resolves to appear happy for each other's sakes. Mrs. Dashwood is also happy, and wants to make changes to the cottage when the weather improves.

This chapter also introduces Sir John Middleton, who is described as being older and very generous. The ladies also meet Lady Middleton, who is in her twenties, and their eldest child who is six. The Middletons leave after inviting the Dashwoods to dinner at Barton Park the next day.

Chapter 6 Analysis

In this chapter Austen shows further irony in the Dashwoods' situation. This irony stems from the fact that in a familiar setting like Norland they were treated like strangers by a family member (John), who had promised...