Marianne Dashwood

Definition

Marianne Dashwood is a central character in Jane Austen's novel 'Sense and Sensibility.' She embodies the Romantic ideal, valuing emotion and passion over the more rational approach represented by her sister Elinor. Through Marianne's experiences, Austen explores themes of love, heartbreak, and the tension between individual desires and societal expectations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Marianne is characterized by her intense emotions and passion for life, often expressing her feelings openly and dramatically.
2. Her infatuation with John Willoughby highlights her impulsive nature and desire for romantic love, which ultimately leads to disappointment.
3. As the story progresses, Marianne undergoes significant character development, learning to balance her emotions with reason after experiencing heartbreak.
4. The contrast between Marianne and Elinor reflects Austen's critique of societal norms regarding women and their roles in relationships.
5. Marianne's journey emphasizes the importance of both sensibility (emotion) and sense (reason) in navigating love and personal relationships.

Review Questions

• How does Marianne Dashwood's character illustrate the conflict between emotion and reason in 'Sense and Sensibility'?
  • Marianne Dashwood's character strongly embodies the conflict between emotion and reason in 'Sense and Sensibility.' Her passionate nature leads her to pursue love with John Willoughby without considering the practical implications of their relationship. In contrast, her sister Elinor approaches love with caution and rationality. This dichotomy illustrates how both sensibility and sense are crucial for navigating the complexities of romance, ultimately showing that an imbalance can lead to emotional turmoil.
• Discuss the significance of Colonel Brandon in Marianne Dashwood's character development throughout the novel.
  • Colonel Brandon plays a vital role in Marianne Dashwood's character development by contrasting her romantic ideals with his steady and unwavering affection. Initially overlooked by Marianne due to his calm demeanor, he later becomes a source of emotional support after her heartbreak with Willoughby. His presence helps Marianne recognize the value of steadfastness over fleeting passion, marking a turning point in her understanding of love and relationships as she learns to appreciate deeper emotional connections.
• Evaluate how Jane Austen uses Marianne Dashwood's experiences to critique societal expectations for women in the early 19th century.
  • Jane Austen uses Marianne Dashwood’s experiences to critique societal expectations for women in the early 19th century by highlighting the limitations imposed on women's choices regarding love and marriage. Marianne's passionate pursuit of love initially aligns with Romantic ideals but ultimately leads to suffering when societal norms about wealth and social status intervene. Through Marianne’s journey from impulsive passion to a more balanced understanding of love, Austen comments on the need for women to navigate their desires within a rigid social structure while advocating for a more nuanced view of female agency.

Related terms

Elinor Dashwood: The elder sister of Marianne, Elinor embodies reason and restraint, serving as a contrast to Marianne's emotional nature throughout 'Sense and Sensibility.'

Colonel Brandon: A key figure in 'Sense and Sensibility,' Colonel Brandon represents stability and loyalty, ultimately becoming Marianne's love interest after her romantic ideals lead to heartbreak.

Romanticism: An artistic and literary movement that emphasizes emotion, individualism, and nature, which is reflected in Marianne's character and her approach to love.