Sense and Sensibility · Chapter
IV explained
Elinor and Marianne discuss Edward Ferrars's character and Elinor's feelings for him.
What happens
Elinor and Marianne discuss Edward Ferrars's character and Elinor's feelings for him. Elinor admits to esteem and liking but not certainty of engagement, while Marianne is disappointed by her sister's restraint. Mrs. Dashwood, offended by Fanny's insinuations about Edward's prospects, decides to accept Sir John Middleton's offer of Barton Cottage in Devonshire, a move that Elinor supports despite her reservations.
Themes in this chapter
Sense vs. Sensibility
Elinor's cautious, rational approach to love contrasts with Marianne's passionate, idealistic expectations, highlighting the central dichotomy.
Love and Marriage
The discussion of Edward's dependent situation and Mrs. Ferrars's expectations underscores the economic and social constraints on marriage.
Family and Sibling Bonds
Mrs. Dashwood's protective decision to move away from Fanny's hostility reflects the strength of maternal and sisterly loyalty.
Characters to notice
- Elinor Dashwood
Defends Edward's taste and character to Marianne, admits her esteem for him but expresses uncertainty about his affections and the obstacles to marriage.
- Marianne Dashwood
Criticizes Elinor's restrained language about Edward, believing her sister's feelings are stronger and that an engagement is imminent.
- Edward Ferrars
Discussed at length: his shyness, taste, character, and dependent situation under his mother's control; Elinor defends his merits.
- Mrs. Dashwood
Decides to move the family to Barton Cottage after being affronted by Fanny's insinuations about Edward's expectations.
- Fanny Dashwood
Makes uncivil remarks to Mrs. Dashwood about Edward's prospects, prompting the decision to leave Norland.
- Sir John Middleton
Offers Barton Cottage to Mrs. Dashwood in a friendly letter, leading to the family's move to Devonshire.
Key passages
“I do not attempt to deny that I think very highly of him—that I greatly esteem, that I like him.”
Elinor admits she has strong positive feelings for Edward, though she avoids the language of passionate love.
Elinor's measured confession contrasts with Marianne's expectation of romantic fervor.
“Esteem him! Like him! Cold-hearted Elinor! Oh! worse than cold-hearted! Ashamed of being otherwise.”
Marianne is outraged that Elinor uses such tepid words, believing true love should be expressed with warmth.
Marianne's reaction exemplifies her sensibility and disdain for restraint in matters of the heart.
“She instantly wrote Sir John Middleton her acknowledgment of his kindness, and her acceptance of his proposal; and then hastened to show both letters to her daughters.”
Mrs. Dashwood quickly accepts the offer of Barton Cottage and shares the news with her daughters.
The decision to move is made impulsively, driven by Mrs. Dashwood's desire to escape Fanny's hostility.