Reason and Emotion

Author: Compiled by the Writing Group of "Very English Student Extracurricular Reading Series"
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2005-01-01
Features: Jane Austen, born in 1775 and died in 1817, was an English novelist. She wrote novels such as "Sense and Sensibility," "Pride and Prejudice," and "Emma." The two step-sisters of John Dashwood have contrasting personalities. The elder, Elinor, is very knowledgeable, emotional, and knows how to restrain herself, while the younger, Marianne, is equally talented and beautiful but allows her emotions to show without restraint. Due to a move, Elinor must part with the young man she loves, Edward, while Marianne encounters and falls for the charming but irresponsible Willoughby in the countryside, leading to a series of romantic entanglements between the two sisters. First, Marianne, overwhelmed by longing, is abandoned by Willoughby, and falls ill from emotional distress. Then, Elinor learns that Edward has been secretly engaged to Lucy for four years. Elinor suppresses her personal pain and does her best to comfort her sister, helping her regain her spirits. Amidst these misfortunes, Colonel Brandon has been silently in love with Marianne. After the truth about Willoughby is revealed, he wins Marianne's respect and love through his actions, and the injured Marianne marries Colonel Brandon. The colonel also helps Edward secure a clergy position, and Edward decisively breaks off his engagement to Lucy. In the end, Elinor and Edward, the lovers, also come together. The two happy families celebrate their joy.