Sense and Sensibility · Chapter
Chapter XXVII explained
Elinor and Marianne are now in London.
What happens
Elinor and Marianne are now in London. Marianne anxiously awaits a visit from Willoughby, who has left his card but does not appear. Colonel Brandon visits and, after seeing a letter from Marianne to Willoughby, asks Elinor about a rumored engagement. His words reveal his love for Marianne. Elinor, uncertain of the true state of affairs, confirms the mutual affection to shield her sister, leaving Brandon distressed.
Themes in this chapter
Romantic Idealism vs. Reality
Marianne's idealistic expectations of Willoughby clash with his absence and the rumors of his inconstancy, highlighting the gap between romantic fantasy and harsh reality.
Deception and Appearance
Elinor's prudent concealment of the true state of affairs contrasts with Marianne's openness; the rumored engagement spreads despite the family's ignorance.
Female Agency and Constraint
Elinor is constrained by propriety and her sister's secrecy, unable to press for truth or act openly, while Marianne's agency is limited by her dependence on Willoughby's actions.
Characters to notice
- Elinor Dashwood
Struggles to manage Marianne's expectations and protect her reputation; confirms the engagement to Colonel Brandon despite her own doubts.
- Marianne Dashwood
Restless and anxious for Willoughby's visit; writes to him and avoids company, showing her emotional turmoil.
- Colonel Brandon
Visits Elinor, reveals his love for Marianne through his concern, and leaves distressed after learning of her apparent engagement.
- Mrs. Jennings
Hosts the Dashwoods; comments on Willoughby's absence at the ball and provides gossip about the engagement.
- Sir John Middleton
Hosts a ball in London, inviting many young people; meets Willoughby in the street.
- Mr. Palmer
Attends the ball; speaks briefly with Elinor, showing his usual indifference.
Key passages
“These words, which conveyed to Elinor a direct avowal of his love for her sister, affected her very much.”
Colonel Brandon's words revealed his love for Marianne, deeply moving Elinor.
Brandon's confession is indirect but clear to Elinor.
“She acknowledged, therefore, that though she had never been informed by themselves of the terms on which they stood with each other, of their mutual affection she had no doubt, and of their correspondence she was not astonished to hear.”
Elinor admitted she believed Marianne and Willoughby loved each other and corresponded, even without direct confirmation.
Elinor's cautious confirmation to protect Marianne.
“Marianne gave one glance round the apartment as she entered: it was enough, he was not there—and she sat down, equally ill-disposed to receive or communicate pleasure.”
Marianne scanned the room and saw Willoughby was absent, leaving her unable to enjoy the ball or engage with others.
Marianne's disappointment at the ball.