Sense and Sensibility

Main Characters and Their Development

• Elinor Dashwood — the elder of the Dashwood sisters, she embodies sense and restraint. Elinor is characterized by calmness, rationality, and the ability to control her emotions. Throughout the novel, she faces disappointment in love when she learns that Edward Ferrars, whom she has feelings for, is already engaged to another. Nevertheless, Elinor maintains her dignity and composure, which ultimately leads to a happy outcome when Edward breaks off his engagement and confesses his love for her.
• Marianne Dashwood — the younger sister of Elinor, she is the opposite of her sister, embodying sensibility and emotion. Marianne is passionate, impulsive, and inclined towards romantic ideals. She falls in love with John Willoughby, who eventually betrays her, leading to a deep emotional crisis. Throughout the novel, Marianne learns to control her feelings and begins to value more stable and sensible relationships, leading to her marriage to Colonel Brandon.
• Edward Ferrars — a modest and honest young man who falls in love with Elinor. However, his life is complicated by the fact that he is already engaged to Lucy Steele, a woman he no longer has feelings for. Edward finds himself in a difficult situation but ultimately breaks off the engagement and marries Elinor, highlighting his loyalty and moral principles.
• Colonel Brandon — a mature and noble man who falls in love with Marianne. Unlike Willoughby, Brandon represents stability and devotion. Although Marianne initially rejects him, she eventually comes to appreciate his kindness and care. At the end of the novel, they marry, symbolizing the triumph of mature love over youthful illusions.
• John Willoughby — a handsome and charismatic young man who initially seems like the perfect romantic hero for Marianne. However, his true nature is revealed when he abandons Marianne for a lucrative marriage with another woman. His betrayal serves as an important lesson for Marianne, who realizes that outward attractiveness and passion are not always the foundation for lasting relationships.
• Lucy Steele — a cunning and manipulative young woman secretly engaged to Edward Ferrars. She uses her engagement as a means to achieve social status and material gain. Ultimately, she leaves Edward for his wealthy brother, underscoring her selfish motives.