Discussion Topic
The meaning and role of "sense" and "sensibility" in Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility
Summary:
"Sense" in Sense and Sensibility represents rationality and restraint, embodied by Elinor Dashwood, while "sensibility" signifies emotional responsiveness and impulsiveness, exemplified by her sister Marianne. The novel explores the balance between these qualities, suggesting that a harmonious life requires both reason and emotion.
What does Austen mean by "sense" and "sensibility" in Sense and Sensibility?
The terms “sense” and “sensibility” are used to describe the personalities of Elinor and Marianne Dashwood, the two sisters who serve as protagonists in the novel. “Sense” refers to common sense. Elinor is the level-headed one of the two, keeping her emotions in check. She maintains this control throughout the course of the novel, as she watches the man she loves, Edward Ferrars, stay true to Lucy, the woman he is secretly engaged to. Though he has fallen in love with Elinor, he is a man who keeps his promise, putting aside his own feelings, which makes him an ideal companion for Elinor.
“Sensibility,” which describes Marianne, is closer to our current usage of the word “sensitivity.” Marianne’s emotions are worn proudly on her sleeve. She falls in love easily but unwisely with the dashing Willoughby. He breaks her heart, choosing instead to marry a wealthier woman.
Both Elinor and...
Unlock This Answer Now
Start your 48-hour free trial and get ahead in class. Boost your grades with access to expert answers and top-tier study guides. Thousands of students are already mastering their assignments—don't miss out. Cancel anytime.
Already a member? Log in here.
Marianne must take on some of the characteristic of the other in order to resolve their relationships. In the end, Elinor marries Edward (after Lucy marries his brother), while Marianne marries the more stable Colonel Brandon.
What is the role of sensibility in Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility?
Sensibility is best demonstrated in the main character, Elinor, whose defining character trait throughout the book is sensibility, logic, sound reasoning, and a reigning in of passionate or extreme sentimentality.
Let's look at some of the times when Elinor demonstrated sensibility. She has a very pragmatic view of love; when she is separated from Edward, she realizes that it is probably because she has no money, and it isn't a prudent match. It stinks, but she realizes the truth of it, and tries to cling to that as she copes. When they move residences to Barton, she is very sensible about their finances and the reality of their situation. and, not citing specific instances, but rather her character as a whole, she is the voice of reason and moderation in comparison to her more volatile, passionate and dramatic sister. She constantly tempers Marianne's extreme nature.
Sensibility is also a defining theme of the novel. It is the sensible sister who, in the end, gets the man that she loves. It is also Marianne's sensible choice of Colonel Brandon (instead of the intense, love-doomed Willoughby) that in the end earns her happiness and a peaceful life. Many of Austen's female leads are the ones with sensible heads on their shoulders, and they are the heroins. She seems to feel that being rational and sensible was an overlooked trait, and one worth praising. I hope that those thoughts helped; good luck!