Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen is acclaimed for its rich character development and witty social commentary. Readers praise the vivid portrayal of the Dashwood sisters' contrasting personalities and struggles. However, some critique the slow pacing and predictability of the plot. Overall, it remains a beloved classic for its sharp insights and engaging narrative.

A reader who enjoys Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen likely appreciates classic literature, nuanced social commentary, and rich character development. Comparable to fans of Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen and Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë, they savor intricate plots and eloquent prose focused on love, society, and familial duty.

In late 18th-century England, sisters Elinor and Marianne Dashwood navigate love and heartbreak after their family is left in reduced circumstances due to their brother John's miserliness. Elinor manages the family's finances responsibly while concealing her own romantic struggles, and Marianne falls for the charming but unreliable Willoughby. Amid social challenges and personal growth, both sisters eventually find happiness and stability.

Jane Austen

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Teaching Guide

Before You Read

Explore Sense and Sensibility reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Sense and Sensibility | SuperSummary

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Overview

Get ready to explore Sense and Sensibility and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Sense and Sensibility Summary and Study Guide

Background

Sense and Sensibility Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-17

Sense and Sensibility Chapters 1-17 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 18-34

Sense and Sensibility Chapters 18-34 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 35-50

Sense and Sensibility Chapters 35-50 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Sense and Sensibility Character Analysis

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Themes

Sense and Sensibility Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Sense and Sensibility Symbols & Motifs

Literary Devices

Sense and Sensibility Literary Devices

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Important Quotes

Sense and Sensibility Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Sense and Sensibility Essay Topics

Sense and Sensibility Teaching Unit

Introduction

Sense and Sensibility Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

Reading Context

Sense and Sensibility Reading Context

During Reading

Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Sense and Sensibility Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Answer Key

Sense and Sensibility Reading Questions Answer Key

After Reading

Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Sense and Sensibility Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Activities

Sense and Sensibility Activities

Essay Questions

Sense and Sensibility Essay Questions

Exam Questions

Sense and Sensibility Cumulative Exam Questions

Exam Answer Key

Sense and Sensibility Exam Answer Key

Sense and Sensibility

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Sense and Sensibility?

Reading Age

Book Details