Northanger Abbey
Eleanor Tilney
Henry's sister
Henry's gentle, graceful sister and Catherine's truest friend. She lives quietly under her father's thumb and is loyal to the end.
Eleanor Tilney is twenty, quiet, poised and sincere. When Henry introduces her to Catherine in Bath, the two girls warm to each other at once, and Eleanor says she has long wished to make Catherine's acquaintance. She is a sharp contrast to Isabella's loud, gushing manner, because her kindness is real.
Eleanor's life at Northanger is not easy. Her father rules the house by the clock and by his pride, and she has learned to stay calm and obedient. She loves her brother Henry dearly and is a patient guide to Catherine at the Abbey. She never gushes, and Catherine learns that a friend who says little can be worth far more than one who swears devotion in every sentence.
“Henry has spoken of you with great warmth, Miss Morland. I have wished much to make your acquaintance.”
In the story
Contains spoilers.
Eleanor forgives Catherine at once for the missed walk, shows her the portrait of her late mother, and welcomes her to Northanger. She is the one who has to tell Catherine that the General orders her out at seven the next morning. In tears, she presses money on Catherine for the journey.
Eleanor's own happy marriage to a Viscount finally softens her father's pride, which clears the way for Henry and Catherine. The friendship between the two women outlasts the trouble.
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