# Chapter XVII explained — Sense and Sensibility

> Chapter companion for Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen.

## What happens

Edward Ferrars visits the Dashwoods at Barton Cottage, where he is warmly received by Mrs. Dashwood. The family discusses wealth, happiness, and personal ambitions, revealing differing views between Elinor and Marianne. Edward appears reserved and out of spirits, and a conversation about character and shyness leads to tension when Marianne accuses him of being reserved.

## Themes in this chapter

### Romantic Idealism vs. Reality

Marianne's idealistic view that wealth has little to do with happiness contrasts with Elinor's pragmatic acknowledgment of its importance.

### Propriety and Social Conduct

The discussion on shyness, reserve, and civility highlights the social expectations of behavior among the gentry.

## Character check-ins

### Elinor Dashwood

Engages in debate with Marianne about wealth and happiness, and reflects on misapprehensions of character.

### Marianne Dashwood

Expresses her views on wealth and happiness, and accuses Edward of being reserved, causing him distress.

### Edward Ferrars

Visits Barton Cottage, appears out of spirits, and reacts strongly to Marianne's accusation of being reserved.

### Mrs. Dashwood

Welcomes Edward warmly and attributes his low spirits to his mother's lack of liberality.

### Margaret Dashwood

Wishes for a large fortune and participates in the family discussion.

## Key lines

> What have wealth or grandeur to do with happiness?

Marianne questions the connection between material wealth and true happiness.

_Reflects Marianne's romantic idealism._

> I have frequently detected myself in such kind of mistakes... in a total misapprehension of character in some point or other

Elinor admits to often misjudging people's personalities.

_Shows Elinor's self-awareness and reflective nature._

> Reserved! Am I reserved, Marianne?

Edward reacts with surprise and distress to Marianne's accusation that he is reserved.

_Highlights Edward's sensitivity and the tension in his relationship with Marianne._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/sense_and_sensibility_se/chapters/xvii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/sense_and_sensibility_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/sense_and_sensibility_se/chapters