# Chapter 31 explained — Sense and Sensibility

> Chapter companion for Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen.

## What happens

Mrs. Jennings breaks the news of Willoughby's engagement to Miss Grey to Marianne, who is devastated. Despite her grief, Marianne attempts to maintain composure at dinner but ultimately retreats. Elinor discusses Willoughby's deceit with Colonel Brandon, while Mrs. Jennings tries to console Marianne and hints at Colonel Brandon as a potential suitor.

## Themes in this chapter

### Deception and Appearance

Willoughby's deceit is revealed through his engagement to Miss Grey, contrasting his earlier attentions to Marianne.

### Romantic Idealism vs. Reality

Marianne's romantic ideals are shattered by Willoughby's pragmatic marriage to a wealthier woman.

### Social Class and Money

Mrs. Jennings notes that Willoughby's choice is driven by money, as Miss Grey has plenty while Marianne has little.

## Character check-ins

### Mrs. Jennings

Brings news of Willoughby's engagement, attempts to comfort Marianne with food and drink, and speculates about Colonel Brandon's prospects.

### Marianne Dashwood

Grieves over Willoughby's engagement, struggles to maintain composure at dinner, and retreats to her room in misery.

### Elinor Dashwood

Supports Marianne, manages social niceties with Mrs. Jennings, and discusses Willoughby's character with Colonel Brandon.

### Colonel Brandon

Listens to Elinor's assessment of Willoughby, remains serious and thoughtful throughout the evening.

### John Willoughby

Mentioned as being engaged to Miss Grey, having deceived Marianne, and having broken no positive engagement with her.

## Key lines

> Mrs. Jennings came immediately to their room on her return, and without waiting to have her request of admittance answered, opened the door and walked in with a look of real concern.

Mrs. Jennings entered the room without knocking, showing her concern for Marianne.

_Demonstrates Mrs. Jennings's direct and caring nature._

> Marianne, to the surprise of her sister, determined on dining with them. Elinor even advised her against it. But 'no, she would go down; she could bear it very well, and the bustle about her would be less.'

Marianne insisted on joining the dinner party despite Elinor's advice, hoping the activity would distract her.

_Shows Marianne's attempt to cope with her grief through social engagement._

> I believe, she never doubted his regard; and even now, perhaps—but I am almost convinced that he never was really attached to her. He has been very deceitful! and, in some points, there seems a hardness of heart about him.

Elinor confides in Colonel Brandon that she believes Willoughby was never truly in love with Marianne and acted deceitfully.

_Reveals Elinor's perceptive understanding of Willoughby's character._

> Well, my dear, 'tis a true saying about an ill-wind, for it will be all the better for Colonel Brandon. He will have her at last; aye, that he will.

Mrs. Jennings suggests that Willoughby's betrayal will ultimately benefit Colonel Brandon, who may win Marianne's affections.

_Highlights Mrs. Jennings's matchmaking tendencies and her view of the situation as advantageous for Brandon._

## Links

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