Sense & Sensibility

Jane Austin's first published novel, Sense and Sensibility was published in 1811 under a pseudonym of 'a lady'. Characters in the novel are Harry Dashwood, who dies at the beginning of the novel, and his second wife Mary. John is Mr. Dashwood's son by his first marriage, and the three half sisters, Marianne, Elinor, and Margaret make up the rest of the family.

Elinor is the daughter who represents the character trait sense, as she is sensible, even in romance. Marianne is the daughter of sensibilities, full of emotion and romance. Many young and older gentlemen weave their way in and out of the plot, such as Mr. Ferrars, and Willoughby and Colonel Brandon, and the Dashwood ladies stake their fortunes and their emotions with various male characters.

This novel deals with love and affection among the gentry. A quote from this well known novel shows the philosophy of relationships that Austen held: 'It is not time or opportunity that is to determine intimacy—it is disposition alone. Seven years would be insufficient to make some people acquainted with each other, and seven days are more than enough for others.' The various ins and outs of romance she portrayed keep the reader involved in the Dashwood sisters' lives and loves.