Sense and Sensibility · Chapter
XI explained
Elinor observes the deepening attachment between Marianne and Willoughby, while she finds intellectual companionship only in Colonel Brandon, who hints at a past disappointment in love.
What happens
Elinor observes the deepening attachment between Marianne and Willoughby, while she finds intellectual companionship only in Colonel Brandon, who hints at a past disappointment in love. Mrs. Dashwood indulges the young couple's open affection, and Elinor struggles with the lack of stimulating society at Barton.
Themes in this chapter
Sense vs. Sensibility
Elinor's rational caution contrasts with Marianne's romantic impulsiveness, especially in their debate over second attachments and the propriety of concealing feelings.
Romantic Idealism vs. Reality
Marianne's belief that second attachments are impossible is challenged by Colonel Brandon's hinted past sorrow, suggesting that real life often contradicts youthful ideals.
Propriety and Social Conduct
Elinor's attempts to advise Marianne on self-command highlight the tension between social expectations and personal expression of affection.
Characters to notice
- Elinor Dashwood
Serves as the primary observer; she finds Colonel Brandon the only stimulating companion and worries about Marianne's lack of propriety.
- Marianne Dashwood
Openly devoted to Willoughby, she abhors concealment and dismisses Elinor's suggestions of self-command.
- Colonel Brandon
Finds consolation in conversing with Elinor; his words hint at a past unhappy love, deepening Elinor's compassion.
- John Willoughby
Constantly in Marianne's company, he shares her views on unreserved affection and openly shows his admiration.
- Mrs. Dashwood
Warmly enters into Marianne and Willoughby's feelings, seeing their behavior as the natural result of strong affection.
- Lady Middleton
Described as insipid and reserved, she contributes little to conversation and is chiefly occupied with her children.
Key passages
“Your sister, I understand, does not approve of second attachments.”
Colonel Brandon remarks that Marianne seems to disapprove of falling in love more than once.
This exchange reveals Marianne's romantic idealism and hints at Brandon's own painful history.
“Her systems have all the unfortunate tendency of setting propriety at nought; and a better acquaintance with the world is what I look forward to as her greatest possible advantage.”
Elinor believes Marianne's principles disregard social propriety and hopes that experience will teach her better.
Elinor's sensible perspective contrasts with Marianne's romanticism, underscoring the novel's central tension.