Justify The Title Of The Novel Sense And Sensibility
Sense and Sensibility is a novel written by Jane Austen and was published in 1811. The title of the novel itself is a paradox. The novel is about two sisters, Elinor and Marianne Dashwood, who have contrasting personalities. Elinor represents sense, while Marianne represents sensibility. The title of the novel is justified through the characters and their actions.
The Character of Elinor Dashwood
Elinor is the elder sister and represents the sense. She is characterized as rational, practical, and level-headed. She is the one who keeps the family together and tries to solve their problems. She is also the one who bears the burden of their emotional turmoil.
Despite facing many challenges, Elinor maintains her composure and remains practical. For example, when Marianne falls ill, Elinor takes care of her and arranges for medical help. She does not give in to her emotions but does what needs to be done.
The Character of Marianne Dashwood
Marianne is the younger sister and represents sensibility. She is characterized as emotional, impulsive, and romantic. She is the one who falls in love easily and wears her heart on her sleeve. She is also the one who suffers when her heart is broken.
Despite her vulnerability, Marianne is not weak. She remains true to herself and her emotions. For example, when she falls in love with Willoughby, she loves him with all her heart. She does not hold back or try to hide her feelings.
The Contrast Between Sense and Sensibility
The title of the novel, Sense and Sensibility, highlights the contrast between the two sisters. Elinor represents sense, which is all about reason, practicality, and logic. Marianne represents sensibility, which is all about emotions, feelings, and passion.
The contrast between the two sisters shows how both sense and sensibility are necessary for a balanced life. Elinor's sense provides stability and practicality, while Marianne's sensibility provides passion and emotion.
The Justification of the Title
The title of the novel is justified through the characters and their actions. Elinor's sense and Marianne's sensibility are both necessary for the story to progress. The contrast between the two sisters highlights the importance of balance in life.
The title also captures the theme of the novel, which is the search for love and happiness. Elinor's sense helps her find happiness in a practical way, while Marianne's sensibility helps her find love through her emotions.
Conclusion
The title of the novel, Sense and Sensibility, is a paradox that captures the contrast between the two sisters, Elinor and Marianne. Both sense and sensibility are necessary for a balanced life and are important for finding love and happiness. The title is justified through the characters and their actions, highlighting the theme of the novel.