I have to say I have quite enjoyed the first 15 chapters. This is the first time I have read Sense and Sensibility and I like the character development so far. I am intrigued by the background of Colonel Brandon and Mr. Willoughby. Can you believe that the girls brother Mr. John Dashwood let his wife talk him into giving them less and less and less down to nothing. Men are such followers sometimes geez. I could have just screamed at him and said good grief, think for yourself. I am also very interested in why Colonel Brandon headed off to town and why Mr. Willouby left town just as fast. I think Elinor is correct and something funny is going on with him and Marianne. I dont know what it is but I have this feeling that Elinor may end up getting with Colonel Brandon. I dont know maybe I am crazy but I think that mght happen.
Well I hope you all enjoyed the first chapters as well. What did you guys think?
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Okay, can I just say that a "woman who is single at seven and twenty" can "still hope to feel or inspire affection"! (Ch. 8) Thanks a lot Marianne, ha!
I also loved Austen's comparison of how men and women describe people so differently, when Sir John is telling the Dashwood women who Willoughby is and then Marianne says, "is that all you can say for him? But what are his manners on more intimate acquaintance? What his pursuits, his talents and genius?" I love it! We women really want to know who someone is, not just details about them.
Similar to Ashley, I have never read this book, but I have seen the movie and I am trying my hardest to forget it so I can read the book without thinking about what happened in the movie.
Thinking of the title of this book, how would Elinor and Marianne each define sensible? I think they both want to find a "sensible" man, but their views of what this entails can be quite different. Quoting Elinor, she saiys Colonel Brandon is sensible.."He has seen a great deal of the world; has been abroad; has read, and has a thinking mind. I have found him capable of giving me much information on various subjects, and he has always answered my enquiries with the readiness of good breeding and good nature." Well, if that is what sensible is, I want to find him! :)
Any thoughts on Marianne's definition? And other thoughts?
I too am enjoying this book. I read it in Junior high (many moons ago) and I remember that, at that time, I believed Marianne had the right idea about love and romance. As characters go, Marianne and Willougby, in their youth, seem very much disposed towards sensibility--or giving way to emotion and feelings without weighing much by way of reason. Now that I am reading this 14 years later, I am much more inclined towards Elinor's approach--rational, cautious, but not wholly incapable of at least somewhat appreciating the vivaciousness in life that her sister expresses. And as for Colonel Brandon...he is a favorite character of mine. Mostly because he has somewhat of a sage quality, recognizing that youth has its day and that the lack of apprehension or discreet behavior, although less than appropriate, is what allows the young to be imaginative and creative and full of idealistic conviction.
I think maybe a blend of Marianne and Elinor would be the ideal, balanced female character. And may I just say, I think that I would not do well with the lack of rights for women, but the whole notion of "employment" being a variety of leisure activities at any given time--I would totally be in for that. I mean, not working (at all really) would be great!
I think Leanda and Ashley both would love the no working notion. I think I would get bored...
And I agree, I think I am more in tune with Elinor's notions of relationships, even though I do have my idealistic thoughts on finding a great romance, maybe too idealistic since I'm still the only single gal, ha!
Well I'm off to a coffee shop to read on ahead...
Leanda, hopefully we can chat for a few minutes today before your trip!
I apologize for my long silence – I’m sure you all were just waiting on pins and needles :) I am really enjoying this book, a first time read for me, I’ve seen the movie and like Natalie am trying to forget it so I can enjoy the unraveling of the story. I love the language of the book – it almost sounds like singing to me.
Ashley I was struck by how easily Mr. John Dashwood was swayed by his wife as well. The more I thought about it though the more I saw myself in them - how quickly I can go from kind intentions to total selfishness and deceive myself into thinking I’m still doing the kindest thing. I think Austen really understands human nature.
I have to say that I too am partial to Elinor. She seems to spend a lot of time reflecting inwardly before reacting outwardly – very sensible. I was thinking that Marianne is the type of woman I would love watching and listening to at a party but Elinor is the woman I would want to befriend and sit down with for a good chat. I’m really enjoying the character development.
I think romance can often feel like Marianne and Willougby’s version in the begging but the more it grows and changes I think deeper satisfaction and peace is found in Elinor’s sensibilities regarding relationship.
I think I with Ashley and Leanda and wouldn’t mind not working :)
Leanda – have a fabulous time in France I’ll look forward to hearing all about it upon your return. Well my lunch break is up time to get back to it.
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