Sense and Sensibility

Sense and Sensibility is a novel by Jane Austen in which Mrs. Dashwood and her daughters must survive on a meager allowance after the death of Mr. Dashwood. After Mr. Dashwood's death, his son John inherits his estate. John's wife, Fanny, convinces him to give his mother and sisters next to nothing. Elinor falls in love with Fanny's brother, Edward, who is engaged. Marianne falls in love with the dashing Willoughby. He manipulates her emotions but then marries another woman. The older Colonel Brandon patiently courts Marianne. Edward asks for Elinor's hand in marriage after ending his engagement. The two couples happily marry.