DIKSIA.COM - Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility is a classic novel of manners that explores the themes of sense and sensibility, love, and loss. The novel follows the lives of the Dashwood sisters, Elinor and Marianne, as they navigate the challenges of coming of age in Regency England.
Introduction
Sense and Sensibility was first published in 1811 and is one of Austen's most beloved novels. The novel has been adapted into several films and television series, including the 1995 film starring Emma Thompson and Kate Winslet.
Novel Details
- Title: Sense and Sensibility
- Author: Jane Austen
- Genres: Romance, Comedy of Manners, Historical Fiction
- Chapters: 36
- Language: English
- Publisher: John Murray
- Publication Date: 1811
- Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars on Goodreads
- Awards: Sense and Sensibility was awarded the Jane Austen Prize in 1812.
Synopsis
The Dashwood sisters, Elinor and Marianne, are forced to move from their family home after their father's death. They are taken in by their wealthy uncle, Mr. Dashwood, but he only leaves them a small inheritance. Elinor is the sensible sister, while Marianne is the more passionate and impulsive one.
Elinor soon falls in love with Edward Ferrars, but he is already engaged to another woman. Marianne falls in love with John Willoughby, but he is a cad who only uses her for her money.
In the end, both sisters find happiness with their true loves. Elinor marries Edward, and Marianne marries Colonel Brandon.
Plot Summary
The novel opens with the Dashwood family being forced to move from Norland Park, their family home, after Mr. Dashwood's death. The Dashwoods are a wealthy family, but Mr. Dashwood's second wife has no money, so she is left with only a small inheritance.
The Dashwoods move to Barton Cottage, a small cottage in Devonshire. Elinor and Marianne are now on their own, and they must learn to live on their own means.
Elinor is the sensible sister. She is practical and down-to-earth. Marianne is the more passionate and impulsive sister. She is quick to fall in love and quick to get her heart broken.