Three-Act Plot Analysis

For a three-act plot analysis, put on your screenwriter’s hat. Moviemakers know the formula well: at the end of Act One, the main character is drawn in completely to a conflict. During Act Two, she is farthest away from her goals. At the end of Act Three, the story is resolved.

Act I

At Kellynch and Uppercross, Anne and Wentworth meet again after a previous broken engagement, and Wentworth courts Louisa.

Act II

At Lyme, Louisa injures herself and Anne meets Mr. Elliot. Anne discovers even more how much she missed by not marrying Wentworth, and Wentworth finds out that Louisa’s decisiveness is less desirable than Anne’s thoughtfulness. Wentworth realizes that he is honor-bound to marry Louisa.

Act III

Louisa decides to marry Captain Benwick. Wentworth meets with Anne in Bath, but believes she is going to marry Mr. Elliot. Anne and Wentworth finally manage to resolve their confusion and marry.

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