Sense and Sensibility

Historical Context and Significance

«Sense and Sensibility» by Jane Austen, published in 1811, is one of the most important works of English literature. The novel explores the social and gender norms of its time, particularly concerning the status of women and their dependence on marriage for financial stability. The main characters, the Dashwood sisters, embody two opposing approaches to life—sense and emotion, reflecting the dilemmas faced by women of that era. The book significantly influenced the development of the realist novel genre and contributed to the literary movement that emphasized characters' inner worlds and emotional experiences. The novel's influence is also evident in its numerous adaptations in film, theater, and television, attesting to its enduring popularity and relevance to modern readers.