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Description
Table of contents
Biographical note
Excerpt
User Reviews
Sense and Sensibility is a fascinating novel by Jane Austen that explores the contrasting qualities of two sisters, Elinor and Marianne Dashwood, as they undergo the complex experiences of life and love, heartbreak and societal expectations against the setting of nineteenth century England. Interestingly, this book was published anonymously, By a Lady, that appears on the title page where the name of the author is conventionally mentioned.
The novel opens with the sudden death of the Dashwood sisters’ father, which leaves them and their mother with a small income and at the mercy of their half-brother’s generosity. Elinor represents ‘sense,’ exhibiting practicality, propriety and emotional restraint, while Marianne embodies ‘sensibility,’ symbolising romantic ideals, impulsive emotions and a disregard for social conventions.
As the story continues, the sisters find themselves wrapped in romantic endeavours that test their variegated approaches to love. Elinor develops an affection for the reserved and honourable Edward Ferrars, while Marianne falls passionately for the charming and dashing John Willoughby who seemingly shares similar taste in poetry, music, art and love. Their romantic pursuits are fraught with misunderstandings, secrets and societal norms.
Austen masterfully portrays the limitations placed upon women in the Regency era, where their fortunes and social standing depended on advantageous marriages. She highlights the challenges faced by Elinor and Marianne, as they grapple with their own desires, the expectations of their family and the whims of the men they love.
Austen etches wilful and dynamic characters who lead the readers’ minds through societal norms, the consequences of imprudence, the importance of self-control and the resilience of human spirit. Elinor’s restrained composure and Marianne’s impassioned vulnerability offer readers contrasting perspectives on love, highlighting the need for balance and understanding in relationships.
Sense and Sensibility is renowned for Austen’s razor-sharp wit, incisive social commentary, and richly drawn characters. From the lively and meddling Mrs. Jennings to the stoic and honourable Colonel Brandon, the supporting cast adds depth and complexity to the narrative.
With her elegant prose and astute observations of human nature, Austen crafts a compelling story that explores the intricacies of love and the choices we make when faced with societal expectations. Sense and Sensibility stands as a timeless work, reminding readers of the enduring relevance of Austen’s insights into the human heart and the pursuit of happiness in a world governed by societal conventions.
Sense and Sensibility is a fascinating novel by Jane Austen that explores the contrasting qualities of two sisters, Elinor and Marianne Dashwood, as they undergo the complex experiences of life and love, heartbreak and societal expectations against the setting of nineteenth century England. Interestingly, this book was published anonymously, By a Lady, that appears on the title page where the name of the author is conventionally mentioned.
The novel opens with the sudden death of the Dashwood sisters’ father, which leaves them and their mother with a small income and at the mercy of their half-brother’s generosity. Elinor represents ‘sense,’ exhibiting practicality, propriety and emotional restraint, while Marianne embodies ‘sensibility,’ symbolising romantic ideals, impulsive emotions and a disregard for social conventions.
As the story continues, the sisters find themselves wrapped in romantic endeavours that test their variegated approaches to love. Elinor develops an affection for the reserved and honourable Edward Ferrars, while Marianne falls passionately for the charming and dashing John Willoughby who seemingly shares similar taste in poetry, music, art and love. Their romantic pursuits are fraught with misunderstandings, secrets and societal norms.
Austen masterfully portrays the limitations placed upon women in the Regency era, where their fortunes and social standing depended on advantageous marriages. She highlights the challenges faced by Elinor and Marianne, as they grapple with their own desires, the expectations of their family and the whims of the men they love.
Austen etches wilful and dynamic characters who lead the readers’ minds through societal norms, the consequences of imprudence, the importance of self-control and the resilience of human spirit. Elinor’s restrained composure and Marianne’s impassioned vulnerability offer readers contrasting perspectives on love, highlighting the need for balance and understanding in relationships.
Sense and Sensibility is renowned for Austen’s razor-sharp wit, incisive social commentary, and richly drawn characters. From the lively and meddling Mrs. Jennings to the stoic and honourable Colonel Brandon, the supporting cast adds depth and complexity to the narrative.
With her elegant prose and astute observations of human nature, Austen crafts a compelling story that explores the intricacies of love and the choices we make when faced with societal expectations. Sense and Sensibility stands as a timeless work, reminding readers of the enduring relevance of Austen’s insights into the human heart and the pursuit of happiness in a world governed by societal conventions.
Contents
List of Illustrations
Jane Austen, author of six full-length and extremely popular novels, is one of the most celebrated and influential authors in English literature. Known for her insightful and witty creativity, Austen’s works are a perfect critique of novels of sensibility and a realistic picture of the societal norms and intricacies of the Regency era.
Her novels focus on the lives of young women in the Georgian and early Victorian periods, exploring themes of love, marriage, social class and the limitations and hurdles faced by women in society. These works expound her keen observations of human nature and offer a satirical social commentary through their strong, independent female protagonists.
Pride and Prejudice, Austen’s most noted work, follows the spirited and intellectual Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates across the world of courtship and societal expectations. The novel explores the complexities of love and the consequences of judging others based on first impressions. It is cherished for its sharp wit, memorable characters and its universal appeal.
Emma, another notable Austen novel, revolves around the eponymous protagonist’s misguided attempts at matchmaking and the lessons she learns about self-awareness and the importance of personal growth. Austen’s insightful portrayal of Emma’s flaws and her psychological development into a more understanding and compassionate individual make the novel a compelling saga of character transformation.
Austen’s other works, namely Sense and Sensibility, Mansfield Park and Persuasion, delve into the social intricacies of the time and sheds light on the limited choices available to women along with the societal pressures they faced.
Her writings are a soothing cocktail of elegant prose, astute observations and sharp humour. The plots gather momentum through the nuances of relationships, expose the foibles of society and present some everlasting multi-dimensional characters that have owned a permanent place in the literary canon.
Jane Austen’s novels continue to enthral the readers of all generations with their choice of pertinent themes, relatable characters and continued relevance. Her works offer a window into the social fabric and dynamics of her time while at the same time exploring universal human experiences that resonate well with the readers today.
