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Dramatic Irony
Chapter 1
Explanation and Analysis—Marianne and Elinor:
Elinor and Marianne are presented as foils from the start of the story, as well as in the title which ties “sense” (or reason and rationality) to Elinor and “sensibility” (or emotional expression) to Marianne. Austen makes this difference clear in her descriptions of both women. First, she describes Elinor in the following way:
Elinor, this eldest daughter whose advice was so effectual, possessed a strength of understanding, and coolness of judgment, which qualified her, though only nineteen, to be the counsellor of her mother […] She had an excellent heart;—her disposition was affectionate, and her feelings were strong; but she knew how to govern them: it was a knowledge which her mother had yet to learn, and which one of her sisters had resolved never to be taught.
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Chapter 3
Explanation and Analysis—The Ferrars Brothers:
Edward’s brother Robert acts as his foil throughout Sense and Sensibility, even before he is actually present in the novel. Near the start of the story, the narrator describes how Robert is quite ambitious, while Edward wants a more simple life:
Unlock with LitCharts A+His mother wished to interest [Edward] in political concerns, to get him into parliament, or to see him connected with some of the great men of the day […] All his wishes centered in domestic comfort and the quiet of private life. Fortunately he had a younger brother who was more promising.
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Chapter 10
Explanation and Analysis—Brandon and Willoughby:
Marianne’s two suitors—Colonel Brandon and Willoughby—are initially set up as foils for each other, meaning their juxtaposition reveals more about each of their characters. This comes across in Elinor’s internal reflections on the differences between them:
Unlock with LitCharts A+[H]owever a general resemblance of disposition between the parties might forward the affection of Mr. Willoughby, an equally striking opposition of character was no hindrance to the regard of Colonel Brandon. She saw it with concern; for what could a silent man of five and thirty hope, when opposed by a very lively one of five and twenty?
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Chapter 36
Explanation and Analysis—The Ferrars Brothers:
Edward’s brother Robert acts as his foil throughout Sense and Sensibility, even before he is actually present in the novel. Near the start of the story, the narrator describes how Robert is quite ambitious, while Edward wants a more simple life:
Unlock with LitCharts A+His mother wished to interest [Edward] in political concerns, to get him into parliament, or to see him connected with some of the great men of the day […] All his wishes centered in domestic comfort and the quiet of private life. Fortunately he had a younger brother who was more promising.
Related Themes:
