Though the Dashwoods are the family at the heart of the novel, the Ferrars clan interferes and interconnects with them throughout the novel.
We know that the late Mr. Ferrars died “very rich,” but have no indication whether this wealth is part of a storied and ancestral estate or a more recent acquisition. Given that many members of this family seem very focused on advancement in society, it is likely that their origins are comparatively humble.
Members of the Ferrars family discussed or portrayed in the novel include:
- The Late Mr. Ferrars who married Mrs. Ferrars and had the following children:
- Edward Ferrars, the eldest son
- Robert Ferrars
- Fanny (likely Frances) Ferrars, who in turn married Mr. John Dashwood and bore Harry (likely Henry) Dashwood
When trying to convince Edward to marry Miss Morton, Mrs. Ferrars promises to settle “the Norfolk estate” on him, anticipating that it will bring it ￡1,000 per year if not more, suggesting that the family’s country holdings are modest. However, Mrs. Ferrars and her unmarried sons seem to live in Park Street, London.
