Jane Austen – Sense and Sensibility
Sense and Sensibility (1811) is the first published novel of Jane Austen. The novel explores the contrast between reason (sense) and emotion (sensibility) through the lives of the Dashwood sisters, Elinor and Marianne. Austen combines romance with sharp social observation and moral realism.
Background of the Novel
The novel was originally written in epistolary form and later revised into narrative prose. Set in late eighteenth-century England, it reflects:
- inheritance laws
- social class distinctions
- economic dependence of women
Austen examines how women must balance love, money, and social expectation.
Central Idea
The novel contrasts two approaches to life:
- Sense – self-control, rational judgment, moral responsibility
- Sensibility – emotional openness, passion, impulsiveness
Austen suggests that true happiness requires a balance of both.
Major Characters
- Elinor Dashwood – embodies sense, restraint, and moral strength
- Marianne Dashwood – represents sensibility, passion, and emotional excess
- Edward Ferrars – honourable, reserved, morally upright
- Colonel Brandon – mature, loyal, selfless
- Willoughby – charming but irresponsible
- Mrs. Dashwood – affectionate, emotional mother
Chapter-wise / Phase-wise Summary
Phase 1: Loss and Displacement
After Mr. Dashwood’s death, his estate passes to his son from a previous marriage. Mrs. Dashwood and her daughters are left with limited income and forced to move to Barton Cottage.
This establishes the novel’s focus on women’s financial vulnerability.
Phase 2: Love and First Impressions
At Barton:
- Marianne falls passionately in love with Willoughby
- Elinor quietly develops affection for Edward Ferrars
Marianne openly expresses emotion, while Elinor hides her feelings to protect others.
Phase 3: Disillusionment and Suffering
Willoughby abandons Marianne for a wealthy marriage. Marianne’s emotional collapse contrasts with Elinor’s silent endurance when she learns Edward is secretly engaged to Lucy Steele.
This phase exposes the dangers of unchecked sensibility.
Phase 4: Growth and Self-Realisation
Marianne falls seriously ill and reflects on her emotional excess. She recognises the value of self-control and maturity.
Willoughby’s moral weakness is revealed, while Colonel Brandon’s integrity is affirmed.
Phase 5: Resolution and Balance
Edward is freed from his engagement and marries Elinor. Marianne, now wiser, marries Colonel Brandon.
The novel ends with harmony achieved through balance between sense and sensibility.
Major Themes
- Sense vs Sensibility – reason and emotion in conflict
- Marriage and Money – economic realities of love
- Female Dependence – women’s vulnerability
- Self-Control – moral discipline
- Social Class – hierarchy and manners
Use of Irony
Austen uses irony to expose:
- false romantic ideals
- social hypocrisy
- moral weakness hidden behind charm
Willoughby’s charm contrasts with his irresponsibility, while Brandon’s reserve hides deep virtue.
Style and Technique
- third-person omniscient narration
- free indirect discourse
- subtle irony and satire
- realistic dialogue
Austen blends moral instruction with entertainment.
Critical Analysis
- The novel critiques excessive romanticism.
- Elinor represents Austen’s moral ideal.
- Marianne’s growth shows the need for balance.
- The novel affirms rational love over impulsive passion.
- It is both a social novel and a moral comedy.
Quick Revision Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Author | Jane Austen |
| Novel | Sense and Sensibility |
| Year | 1811 |
| Main Conflict | Reason vs emotion |
| Heroine of Sense | Elinor Dashwood |
| Heroine of Sensibility | Marianne Dashwood |
| Ending | Marriage and moral balance |
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