How old is Catherine Morland in Northanger Abbey?

Catherine Morland is seventeen years old in Jane Austen's novel, Northanger Abbey.

Catherine Morland's Age and Background

Catherine Morland, the spirited protagonist of Northanger Abbey, embarks on her adventures at the age of seventeen. Her youth is a significant aspect of her character, influencing her naivety and impressionability throughout the story. She has spent her entire life in her family's humble dwelling located in the rural village of Fullerton.

Despite her extensive reading, particularly of Gothic novels, which fuel her imagination, Catherine remains notably inexperienced in discerning the true intentions and characters of the people she encounters. This blend of literary enthusiasm and real-world innocence shapes her journey and observations.

Key Characteristics of Catherine Morland

Catherine's personality and background are central to the narrative, defining her reactions and growth.

• Age: Seventeen years old, contributing to her youthful perspective and initial lack of worldliness.
• Hometown: Fullerton, a modest, rural setting that contrasts sharply with the social circles she later enters in Bath and Northanger Abbey.
• Upbringing: Resides in her family's simple home, indicating a sheltered and unpretentious upbringing.
• Literary Habits: An avid reader, especially fond of Gothic novels, which often lead her to romanticize and misunderstand real-life situations.
• Social Acumen: Possesses a remarkable lack of experience in judging human character, making her susceptible to misinterpretations and easily influenced by others.

Character Overview

To further illustrate her profile, here's a quick overview: