Sense and Sensibility

Definition

Sense and Sensibility is a novel by Jane Austen that explores the contrasting traits of reason and emotion through the lives of its two main characters, Elinor and Marianne Dashwood. The novel examines themes of love, social class, and the limitations placed on women in the early 19th century, while also revealing Austen's sharp critique of societal norms and expectations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sense and Sensibility was published in 1811, making it one of Austen's earliest novels and a significant contribution to the development of the novel as a literary form.
2. The novel's narrative structure alternates between Elinor's practical approach to love and relationships and Marianne's passionate expressions of emotion, highlighting the tension between sense and sensibility.
3. Austen uses irony throughout the novel to critique social conventions regarding marriage and gender roles, often exposing the absurdities of societal expectations.
4. The story emphasizes the importance of balancing rational thought with emotional understanding, suggesting that neither extreme is ideal for navigating life's challenges.
5. Key themes in Sense and Sensibility include the economic pressures faced by women, the role of family loyalty, and the complexities of romantic love within a restrictive social structure.

Review Questions

• How do the characters Elinor and Marianne Dashwood represent the themes of sense and sensibility in the novel?
  • Elinor Dashwood embodies sense through her rationality, self-control, and practical approach to life. In contrast, Marianne Dashwood represents sensibility with her intense emotions and romantic ideals. Their differing responses to love and societal pressures illustrate Austen's exploration of how both qualities are necessary for personal growth and happiness. The interplay between their characters highlights the need for balance between reason and emotion in navigating relationships.
• In what ways does Austen utilize irony as a tool for social critique in Sense and Sensibility?
  • Austen employs irony in Sense and Sensibility to expose the contradictions within society's expectations regarding marriage and gender roles. For instance, characters often profess values that they fail to uphold or act against their own interests due to social pressures. This ironic commentary not only highlights the absurdities within these conventions but also underscores the challenges faced by women seeking autonomy in their lives. Through this lens, readers gain insight into the limitations imposed on individuals by rigid social structures.
• Evaluate how Sense and Sensibility reflects Jane Austen's views on the role of women in early 19th century society.
  • Sense and Sensibility reflects Austen's critical perspective on the limited options available to women during the early 19th century. Through Elinor and Marianne’s experiences, Austen illustrates how women's identities were often tied to marriageability and financial security. The novel critiques societal norms that prioritize economic stability over genuine emotional connections. By showcasing both characters' journeys towards understanding their own desires within these constraints, Austen advocates for a more nuanced view of women's roles that embraces both emotional fulfillment and rational thought.

Related terms

Elinor Dashwood: One of the main characters in Sense and Sensibility, Elinor represents sense, embodying reason, restraint, and practicality in contrast to her sister Marianne.

Marianne Dashwood: Elinor's younger sister in Sense and Sensibility, Marianne symbolizes sensibility, characterized by her emotional nature, romantic ideals, and impulsive behavior.

Courtship: The period of romantic pursuit and engagement in which individuals navigate societal expectations and personal desires, prominently featured in Austen's works.