I wasn't expecting much from 'Sense and Sensibility', thinking it'd feel like a chore. But Jane Austen's sharp wit and lively characters hooked me hard. I ended up delightfully surprised!
What got me
I went into this book with a bit of skepticism, considering classics usually feel like high school homework to me. But right from the start, Austen's wit pulled me in. Elinor and Marianne, the Dashwood sisters, are so vividly drawn, with Elinor's reserved wisdom contrasting beautifully with Marianne's spirited emotions. The way they navigate their social world is both relatable and amusing, even centuries later. I caught myself fully invested in their romantic ups and downs, cheering and groaning along with them. Austen has a way of making you feel every little dramatic moment.
Honestly, one of the moments that really made me smile was when Marianne is so overtaken by her romantic notions that she can't help but recite poetry dramatically. Elinor's practicality serves as such a great counterpoint to Marianne's impetuous nature. I found myself thinking of people I know who fit each sister's mold. Austen's characters feel like real people, which is probably why this book still resonates with readers today. I didn't expect to find such a human connection in a classic.
Where it drags
There are parts where the novel slows down a bit, mostly when Austen digs too deeply into the societal norms and the financial details of the time. I skimmed the sections about inheritance laws and some of the financial intricacies, which felt a bit dense and technical. These parts slowed the pace for me, and I found myself wishing we could jump back into the more dynamic character interactions. If you're a reader who relishes every historical detail, you'll probably appreciate it more than I did.
While these sections flesh out the world Austen's characters inhabit, they can feel a bit bogged down if you're more into the personal stories. They do, however, add to the understanding of the stakes the characters face, especially since marriage and money are so crucial to the plot. But for someone who's more interested in the romance and character development, these bits might feel like speed bumps. So, bear with them, because the payoff in character growth is worth it.
Interesting characters
The character who really stood out to me was Colonel Brandon. He seems almost brooding at first, but his quiet depth and steadfastness are compelling. His story unfolds slowly, and I appreciated how Austen gradually reveals his past. Colonel Brandon is quite different from the dashing but unreliable Willoughby, who holds a certain charm despite being a questionable choice for Marianne. Austen's skill is in making even the flawed characters likable to some extent.
Edward Ferrars also intrigued me with his gentle nature and internal conflict. He isn't your typical romantic hero, but that makes him interesting. His sense of duty and internal struggle make for a nuanced portrayal of a man trying to do what's right, even if it costs him. On the flip side, Lucy Steele's manipulative tendencies provide some drama and tension. These characters are so well-crafted that you can't help but be drawn into their intricate relationships and conflicts.
A touch of humor
Austen's humor is another aspect that took me by surprise. Her sarcastic observations about the society she lived in are hilarious. Her quips about the absurdities of social norms, like the ridiculous matchmaking mothers, had me chuckling. Mrs. Jennings' constant meddling and over-the-top efforts to pair off the sisters is a comic highlight. Austen pokes fun at the very traditions and expectations that confine her characters, which is refreshing.
Even in its more serious moments, the book maintains a lightness that makes it enjoyable. Austen's use of irony is brilliant, and the way she threads humor through even the tense moments keeps the narrative from ever feeling too heavy. Her ability to balance wit and warmth is part of what makes the book so endearing. It's not just romance or societal critique, but a clever blend of both with a generous helping of humor.
Is it worth $3?
Absolutely worth every penny! For $2.97, 'Sense and Sensibility' is a bargain for anyone open to diving into a classic with a modern mindset. It's not just the romance that stands out, but how Austen explores human nature with such a deft touch. Even if classics aren't usually your thing, there's a realness to the characters and their dilemmas that feels relevant, even now.
The book is a bit of an emotional rollercoaster, and the journey of the Dashwoods is both heartwarming and insightful. Plus, Austen's sharp humor makes it an engaging read. If you're on the fence about reading a classic, I'd say give this one a shot. It's a delightful combination of love, wit, and social commentary that's well worth the time and very little money you'll spend on it.
“It is not time or opportunity that is to determine intimacy.”
This line stuck with me because it speaks volumes about human connections and timing.
- +Austen's witty writing and keen observations
- +dynamic relationship between the Dashwood sisters
- +Colonel Brandon's compelling character development
- +unexpected humor laced throughout the story
- −some slow sections on societal norms and finances
Should you read it?
- • you'll like this if you enjoy character-driven stories
- • great for readers who appreciate a mix of romance and social critique
- • perfect if you want a classic that's still relatable
- • those who dislike long, descriptive passages
Jane Austen was born in 1775 in Hampshire, England. She began writing in her teens, crafting stories and novels that delved into the lives and loves of the English upper class. Her works are known for their sharp wit, humor, and keen social commentary.
Though she published six major novels during her lifetime, Austen gained posthumous fame, becoming one of the most widely read writers in English literature. Her books remain popular today, offering a window into the complexities of human relationships with a touch of irony.
- →Jane Austen published 'Sense and Sensibility' anonymously as 'By A Lady'.
- →Austen initially wrote the novel in epistolary form, titled 'Elinor and Marianne'.
- →The original publication earned her £140, which was a substantial sum for her work at the time.
![Love and Freindship [sic] cover](https://amazonbests.com/api/ebooks/cover/love-and-freindship-sic)
