Sense and Sensibility

by Jane Austen
Sense and Sensibility cover
Good Books rating 4.12
Literary Fiction
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Technical
  • ID: 1780
  • Added: 2025-10-09
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • ISBN: 9780192833587
  • Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA
  • Published: 1998-01-01
  • Formats: 146
  • Reviews: 4

In 'Sense and Sensibility,' Jane Austen masterfully portrays the lives of the Dashwood sisters, Elinor and Marianne, who must navigate the societal expectations and economic realities of their time. Through her signature sardonic humor, Austen exposes the stratagems, hypocrisy, and poignancy inherent in their pursuit of respectability and happiness. The novel delves into the themes of love, family, and the constraints imposed by social norms, offering a timeless exploration of human nature. Austen's keen observations and sharp wit make this a classic tale that continues to resonate with readers today.

Reviews
Geneva Durand · 2021-10-13
engaging 4.00

The book is engaging but lengthy, requiring a significant time commitment. It highlights Austen's skill in blending social commentary with compelling storytelling.

This reviewer found Sense and Sensibility to be a captivating read, though they noted it's a moderately long book that can take up a whole day. They appreciated Austen's ability to weave social commentary into the narrative, making it a rich and thought-provoking experience. The story's depth and complexity are commendable, but the length might be a consideration for some readers.

Quick quotes

    Sense and Sensibility is a moderately long book; it's not impossible to read it in a day, but you probably won't get a whole lot else done.

    The novel is an exemplification of Austen's skill in blending social commentary with compelling storytelling.

    Austen's use of irony and realism adds layers to the narrative, making it a timeless classic.

Literary Elephant · 2020-02-25
great 4.00

Sense and Sensibility highlights the difficulties faced by women in the 19th century who could neither inherit nor earn fortunes. The novel is a powerful exploration of the societal constraints and economic realities of the time.

The reviewer from Literary Elephant highlights how Sense and Sensibility sheds light on the challenges faced by women in the 19th century. They appreciate the novel's exploration of the societal constraints and economic realities of the time, noting that it provides a powerful commentary on the limited opportunities available to women. The reviewer finds the novel to be a compelling read, with well-developed characters and a engaging narrative that captures the complexities of the era. They also note that the novel's themes are still relevant today, making it a timeless classic.

Quick quotes

    In Sense and Sensibility, we see how difficult life could be in this time and place for women who can neither inherit fortunes nor earn them.

    The novel is a powerful exploration of the societal constraints and economic realities of the time.

    The novel's themes are still relevant today, making it a timeless classic.

We Need to Talk About Books · 2017-06-01
compelling 4.00

The story arc is engaging, with a compelling exploration of the Dashwood sisters' struggles. The novel's themes of love and societal expectations are well-executed.

This reviewer enjoyed the story arc Austen takes the reader through, particularly the bleak moments that add tension and depth to the narrative. They appreciated the exploration of the Dashwood sisters' struggles and the themes of love and societal expectations. The novel's realism and social commentary make it a compelling read, though some might find the pacing slow at times.

Quick quotes

    I enjoyed the story arc Austen takes the reader through as half-way through the novel things look very bleak for the Dashwood sisters.

    The novel's themes of love and societal expectations are well-executed and thought-provoking.

    Austen's use of irony and realism adds layers to the narrative, making it a timeless classic.

The Book Habit · 2014-01-12
excellent 4.50

The novel is praised as one of Austen's best works, showcasing her exceptional skill in storytelling. The characters and social commentary are particularly noteworthy.

This reviewer highly recommends Sense and Sensibility, placing it among Austen's finest works. They were particularly impressed by the novel's social commentary and the depth of its characters. The story's exploration of human nature and societal norms is both insightful and engaging. The reviewer believes it's a must-read for fans of classic literature.

Quick quotes

    Sense and Sensibility is undoubtedly one of Jane Austen's best works.

    As with Pride and Prejudice, the novel is an exemplification of Austen's skill.

    The characters are well-developed and the social commentary is both relevant and thought-provoking.

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