Podcast
Questions and Answers
What does Marianne tell Elinor about the horse?
What does Marianne tell Elinor about the horse?
Willoughby has given her a horse that he actually bred himself.
Elinor supports Marianne's decision to accept the horse.
Elinor supports Marianne's decision to accept the horse.
False
What does Elinor think about Marianne's behavior with Willoughby?
What does Elinor think about Marianne's behavior with Willoughby?
What does Margaret tell Elinor she witnessed?
What does Margaret tell Elinor she witnessed?
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Match the following characters with their actions:
Match the following characters with their actions:
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What is Colonel Brandon's situation during the picnic?
What is Colonel Brandon's situation during the picnic?
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Marianne agrees with Elinor that going to Allenham is improper.
Marianne agrees with Elinor that going to Allenham is improper.
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What symbolism is associated with Edward's ring?
What symbolism is associated with Edward's ring?
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What does Lucy Steele reveal to Elinor?
What does Lucy Steele reveal to Elinor?
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Marianne treats the Steele girls coldly, leading Lucy to prefer to spend time with _____.
Marianne treats the Steele girls coldly, leading Lucy to prefer to spend time with _____.
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Why does Elinor initially refuse Mrs. Jennings' invitation?
Why does Elinor initially refuse Mrs. Jennings' invitation?
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Marianne is uninterested in the trip to London.
Marianne is uninterested in the trip to London.
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Who is Colonel Brandon?
Who is Colonel Brandon?
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Marianne believes Willoughby is in _______ because he loves to hunt.
Marianne believes Willoughby is in _______ because he loves to hunt.
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What does Elinor write to her mother about?
What does Elinor write to her mother about?
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Willoughby shows affection towards Marianne when they meet at Lady Middleton's party.
Willoughby shows affection towards Marianne when they meet at Lady Middleton's party.
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What does Marianne do when she receives a letter from Willoughby?
What does Marianne do when she receives a letter from Willoughby?
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What assumption does Marianne make about Willoughby's feelings?
What assumption does Marianne make about Willoughby's feelings?
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Elinor feels she cannot be happy when her sister is _______.
Elinor feels she cannot be happy when her sister is _______.
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What does Elinor suggest to Marianne after she realizes Willoughby has rejected her?
What does Elinor suggest to Marianne after she realizes Willoughby has rejected her?
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Who inherits the estate at Norland after Mr. Dashwood's death?
Who inherits the estate at Norland after Mr. Dashwood's death?
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John Dashwood was initially committed to helping his stepmother and half-sisters after his father's death.
John Dashwood was initially committed to helping his stepmother and half-sisters after his father's death.
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What is Elinor Dashwood's character like?
What is Elinor Dashwood's character like?
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What is Marianne Dashwood's approach to emotions compared to Elinor's?
What is Marianne Dashwood's approach to emotions compared to Elinor's?
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What does Mrs. John Dashwood advise her husband regarding the Dashwood women?
What does Mrs. John Dashwood advise her husband regarding the Dashwood women?
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Who is Edward Ferrars in relation to the Dashwood family?
Who is Edward Ferrars in relation to the Dashwood family?
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Marianne thinks highly of Edward and considers him an ideal man.
Marianne thinks highly of Edward and considers him an ideal man.
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What is a common theme regarding marriage discussed in the text?
What is a common theme regarding marriage discussed in the text?
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Marianne falls and twists her ____ while trying to run away in the rain.
Marianne falls and twists her ____ while trying to run away in the rain.
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Who provides a stark contrast in personality to Colonel Brandon?
Who provides a stark contrast in personality to Colonel Brandon?
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What does Mrs. Jennings believe about Colonel Brandon's feelings?
What does Mrs. Jennings believe about Colonel Brandon's feelings?
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Elinor believes that showing mutual feelings publicly is appropriate.
Elinor believes that showing mutual feelings publicly is appropriate.
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What is the reaction of Elinor when Willoughby frequently visits their home?
What is the reaction of Elinor when Willoughby frequently visits their home?
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Study Notes
Chapter 1 Overview
- The Dashwood family, including Mrs. Dashwood and her three daughters, live at Norland Park after the death of the elder Mr. Dashwood.
- Henry Dashwood becomes the heir to Norland, leaving little financial support for his stepmother and half-sisters.
- John's selfishness leads to broken promises to support his stepfamily, showcasing the themes of obligation and familial duty.
Character Dynamics
- Elinor Dashwood is sensible and practical, acting as a stabilizing force in the family.
- Marianne Dashwood is emotional and impulsive, contrasting with Elinor's restraint.
- Margaret Dashwood is youthful and good-natured, acting as a balanced figure between her sisters.
Commentary on Social Status
- The Dashwood women face financial hardships due to inheritance laws favoring male heirs.
- Elinor and Marianne represent the contrast between sense (ration) and sensibility (emotion) in their approaches to life and relationships.
Chapter 2 Development
- Mrs. John Dashwood, Fanny, becomes the mistress of Norland, complicating the lives of the Dashwood women.
- Fanny discourages her husband from providing substantial support to his stepmother and half-sisters.
Information on Financial Struggles
- Fanny provides rationalizations for withholding financial aid, emphasizing her greedy nature.
- John's loyalty to his wife overshadows any initial commitment to help his family.
Chapter 3 Summary
- The Dashwoods remain at Norland briefly, struggling to find a new home.
- A sense of obligation from John to his late father provides Mrs. Dashwood with little reassurance about their future.
Character Relations
- Elinor's quiet affection for Edward Ferrars develops despite Mrs. Dashwood's unease regarding Fanny's influence.
- Marianne's dismissive attitude toward Edward reflects her romantic ideals for a suitor.
Commentary on Marriage and Social Status
- The necessity of financial security for women's marriage prospects is underscored, highlighting societal expectations of the time.
Chapters 4-6 Highlights
- The Dashwoods move to a smaller yet comfortable cottage in Devonshire, giving them a fresh start.
- Sir John Middleton is a warm-hearted host, enhancing their new life despite reduced status.
- Willoughby enters the picture, captivating Marianne and igniting her romantic aspirations.
Emphasis on Romantic Ideals
- Marianne's impatience and disregard for societal norms clash with Elinor's measured views on love and propriety.
- The contrast between practical concerns and romantic desires is explored through character interactions.
Chapters 7-10 Character Introductions
- Willoughby wins over the Dashwood family through charm and shared interests, indicating potential romantic ties.
- Elinor's caution regarding Willoughby's character foreshadows future conflict over his treatment of Marianne.
Exploration of Discretion and Conduct
- Elinor champions discretion in romantic relationships, while Marianne's openness challenges social boundaries.
- Their differing perspectives on love highlight the primary theme of sense versus sensibility.
Chapter 11-13 Developments
- Relationships deepen as the Dashwoods engage in social activities, increasing tensions around class and marriage.
- The importance of reputation and public perception becomes evident in the characters' actions and expectations.
- Upcoming events, such as the picnic at Colonel Brandon's estate, set the stage for interactions that may pivot the narrative.
Overall Themes and Character Growth
- The text contrasts societal expectations with personal desires, showcasing the inner conflicts of each character.
- Willoughby's aloofness and its impact on Marianne raises questions about emotional intelligence in romantic endeavors.### Character Dynamics and Relationships
- Elinor expresses surprise and concern regarding Marianne’s unchaperoned visit to Allenham with Willoughby, considering it improper.
- Willoughby and Marianne’s growing affection leads others, including Mrs. Jennings, to speculate about their engagement.
- Colonel Brandon's sudden departure hints at a deeper issue involving his daughter, Miss Williams, adding tension to the narrative.
Plot Developments
- Mrs. Jennings continues to question the circumstances of Colonel Brandon’s abrupt leave, suspecting financial troubles.
- After returning from a visit, Marianne appears distressed by Willoughby's sudden plan to leave for London, heightening her emotional state.
- Elinor grapples with feelings of confusion about her relationship with Edward Ferrars, whose unexpected behavior suggests inner turmoil.
Social Conflicts
- Economic concerns are a recurring theme; characters struggle with societal judgments based on wealth and connections.
- Marianne’s grief after Willoughby's departure underscores the contrast between her emotional expressiveness and Elinor’s reserved demeanor.
- The arrival of the Palmers introduces additional social dynamics and tensions in the Dashwood sisters' lives.
New Introductions and Reveals
- The Steele sisters bring complexity to social interactions; Lucy reveals her secret engagement to Edward, shocking Elinor.
- Edward’s ring, initially seen as a romantic token, becomes a symbol of hidden commitments, complicating the girls’ understanding of their own affections.
Emotional Struggles
- Elinor feels a blend of hope and despair regarding Edward, with mixed signals leading to questions about his true feelings.
- Marianne's emotional reactions highlight her character's depth, as her desires and disappointments are magnified by her romantic ideals.
- The juxtaposition of Marianne's impulsiveness with Elinor's rational approach showcases differing methods of coping with romantic dissatisfaction.
Foreshadowing and Themes
- Foreshadowing is evident in characters’ discussions about engagements and relationships, hinting at future conflicts.
- The relationship dynamics reflect the broader societal issues of marriage, class, and personal integrity in the Regency era.
- Hospitality and social expectations underline characters’ interactions, revealing the pressures they face in maintaining appearances and relationships.
Planning and Journey to London
- The Dashwood sisters’ trip to London reflects a turning point, as personal desires clash with familial obligations and social expectations.
- Marianne's excitement about reuniting with Willoughby contrasts sharply with Elinor’s guarded disposition toward the impending social season in London.
- The uncertainty of relationships is palpable as characters navigate their emotions amidst societal expectations, emphasizing the novel’s exploration of love and class.### Characters and Relationships
- Elinor worries about her sister Marianne's behavior and her feelings for Willoughby.
- Colonel Brandon visits frequently, indicating his concern for Marianne.
- Willoughby sends a calling card but avoids direct interaction.
Marianne's Emotional Turmoil
- Marianne is devastated by Willoughby’s absence and waits anxiously for him.
- She receives a disappointing note for Mrs. Jennings instead of from Willoughby.
- Despite Elinor’s encouragement, Marianne dreads attending Lady Middleton's dinner.
Social Gatherings and Tensions
- Sir John’s party atmosphere contrasts with Marianne's despair, as Willoughby does not attend.
- Mrs. Jennings reveals that Willoughby was invited but did not show up, exacerbating Marianne’s distress.
- Elinor writes to her mother for advice regarding Marianne’s situation.
Engagement Speculations
- Colonel Brandon implies that Marianne and Willoughby are engaged, but Elinor challenges this notion.
- Brandon gathered information suggesting engagement but leaves without confirmation, feeling sad for Marianne.
Willoughby's Coldness
- Willoughby's appearance at a party with another woman confuses and hurts Marianne.
- He acts indifferently towards both Elinor and Marianne when they meet.
- Marianne confronts him, but he leaves without a proper explanation, causing her to nearly faint.
Revelations and Heartbreak
- Elinor realizes that there is no engagement and feels sympathy for Marianne, but also frustration at Willoughby’s actions.
- The arrival of a letter reveals that Willoughby has moved on and declares his love for another, returning Marianne's letters.
Sisterly Support and Grief
- Elinor attempts to console Marianne, who is overwhelmed with sadness and despair.
- Marianne declares her desire to die, expressing jealousy towards Elinor's perceived happiness with Edward.
- Elinor urges Marianne to focus on the truth rather than the false hope of an engagement.
Misunderstandings of Affection
- Marianne reflects on her belief that Willoughby loved her, despite no promises being made.
- Elinor uncovers the depth of Marianne's emotional turmoil through her letters, realizing the extent of her sister’s suffering.
- Marianne is fixated on the idea that someone must have influenced Willoughby’s change of heart, expressing a desire to return home.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the key events and characters from Chapter 1 of 'Sense and Sensibility' by Jane Austen. This quiz reflects the initial setup of the Dashwood family and their circumstances in Norland Park. Explore the relationships and conflicts that arise right from the beginning.
