Sense and Sensibility: Analysis of Elinor & Marianne Dashwood

Sense and Sensibility

A Novel by Jane Austen

English Literature Presentation

The Dashwood Sisters

<b>Elinor Dashwood (19)</b> represents 'Sense'. She is prudent, governed by reason, and suppresses her emotions to maintain social propriety and protect her family.

<b>Marianne Dashwood (16)</b> represents 'Sensibility'. She is impulsive, romantic, and believes in the unrestrained expression of emotion, often disregarding social conventions.

The Gentlemen

<b>Edward Ferrars:</b> Elinor's love interest. Kind but shy and dominated by his family. He is secretly engaged to Lucy Steele.

<b>John Willoughby:</b> A dashing, romantic hero who sweeps Marianne off her feet. He appears perfect but is financially motivated and reckless.

<b>Colonel Brandon:</b> An older, wealthy bachelor who loves Marianne patiently. He represents steady devotion over flashy romance.

Summary: Loss & Departure

Following the death of Henry Dashwood, his estate (Norland Park) passes to his son John, leaving his second wife and three daughters (Elinor, Marianne, Margaret) impoverished. Forced to leave their home, they move to Barton Cottage in Devonshire.

There, Marianne falls deeply in love with the dashing Willoughby, while Elinor forms a quiet attachment to Edward Ferrars, though she is puzzled by his reserve. The contrast begins: Marianne is open about her love, while Elinor suffers in silence when Edward visits distantly.

Summary: London & Resolution

In London, Willoughby publicly rejects Marianne for a wealthy heiress, shattering her heart. Meanwhile, Elinor discovers Edward is secretly engaged to Lucy Steele. Marianne falls dangerously ill from grief but is nursed back to health, gaining a new perspective on self-control. Edward is disinherited for his honor but eventually freed when Lucy marries his brother instead. Edward marries Elinor, and Marianne eventually finds happiness with Colonel Brandon.

Central Question: Self-Control vs. Passion

The novel asks: <i>Which leads to happiness? Strict adherence to social duty and restraint (Sense), or the free indulgence of strong emotions (Sensibility)?</i><br><br>While Elinor conceals her pain to maintain order, Marianne exposes hers, leading to social embarrassment and physical illness.

The Answer: Balance

Austen answers the question through the evolution of both sisters. It is not one or the other, but a <b>balance</b> that is required.<br><br><ul><li><b>Marianne's Arc:</b> She learns that sensibility without sense is dangerous. She adopts some of Elinor's prudence by marrying Brandon.</li><li><b>Elinor's Arc:</b> She learns that sense without sensibility is isolating. She finally allows herself to break down and express her love for Edward.</li></ul>

Playlist: Marianne & Willoughby

Young and Beautiful - Lana Del Rey

Captures the aesthetic, intense, and slightly superficial nature of their early romance. It mirrors Marianne's obsession with the visual perfection of love.

The Night We Met - Lord Huron

Represents the haunting memory of their time in Devonshire after Willoughby leaves. 'I had all and then most of you, some and now none of you.'

Playlist: Elinor & Edward

Ivy - Frank Ocean

Reflects the complicated, hidden nature of their love. The lyrics describe deep connection buried under circumstances (like Edward's secret engagement).

Cinnamon Girl - Lana Del Rey

'There's things I wanna say to you, but I'll just let you live.' Perfectly conveys Elinor's choice to remain silent to protect Edward's honor.

Final Reflection

Love Ridden - Fiona Apple

This song encapsulates the raw, physical toll of heartbreak that Marianne experiences ('sensibility' unchecked). However, the novel closes on a note of healing. Life requires us to feel deeply, like Marianne, but survive through strength, like Elinor.