Tomes of Miscellany: Sense and Sensibility

Tomes of Miscellany

Welcome to the land of danger and intrigue, where individuals are legion and non-conformity is the norm. Join me as I explore the many facets of humanity and meet the scum of the earth and its angels incarnate.

W A R N I N G !

This review does not represent the opinions of the general public. It reflects my personal thoughts and opinions on the book.

That said, on to the review!

Title: Sense and Sensibility
Author: Jane Austen
Publisher: Bantam Books
Format: Paperback
Copyright Date: 1983

Although his father's dying wish is that he provide for his step-mother and half-sisters, Mr. Dashwood lets his wife convince him of their not needing his support. As a result, the elder Mrs. Dashwood and her three daughters are forced to live more economically than they ever have before. To do so, they relocate themselves into the country, accepting the charity of a distant cousin of Mrs. Dashwood's. And thus the dangers begin: for while Elinor has accepted the loss of a young man whose good opinion she values, Marianne has not yet known what first love is like, and she is to soon discover it in their new abode. And while Edward Ferrars has been nothing but a gentleman to Elinor, Mr. Willoughby has a few secrets that may destroy all of Marianne's bright and happy dreams. The question is, will she survive to find true happiness, and will Elinor survive if she doesn't?

Sense and Sensibility is an interesting novel. While it parallels Pride and Prejudice ins some ways, there are decidedly different aspects to each book. The situations are considerably different, yet it is the same collection of strengths that draw the characters through the dark times to the happy endings in store for them.

It is perhaps very telling that some of the wealthier individuals in the book are remarkably lacking in good sense. They have their titles and money, yet they commit glaring social gaffs both in and out of their circles. The ones in their circles, however, are quite often no better than they, but for those like Elinor and Marianne--or, rather, Elinor since Marianne's own sense is lacking--it can be quite embarassing as well. The stupidity demonstrated by some of the characters, including examples of ill-breeding, comes through very clearly through both description and dialogue and, in some cases, through the author's own expressed opinion. Despite the problems posed by such characters, or maybe because of them, Elinor shines through as perhaps the only sensible person in the entire book. But that's a highly subjective opinion. You should read it and judge for yourself, right?

Sense and Sensibility may give younger readers--and even many older readers--some trouble. All I can say is, if you enjoyed Pride and Prejudice, I'm pretty sure you'll enjoy this book, too. Give it a try, won't you?

Rating: Thumbs up! What would you do to overcome numerous setbacks to sustain a relationship?

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