Учебное пособие к элективному курсу «Зарубежная литература. Художественная литература Великобритании XIX-XX веков». Сборник упражнений для работы с книгой Дж. Остин “Разум и чувства”
методическая разработка (английский язык) на тему

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Учебное пособие к элективному курсу

«Зарубежная литература. Художественная литература Великобритании XIX-XX веков»

Сборник упражнений для работы с книгой Дж. Остин “Разум и чувства”

Автор: учитель английского языка НОУ «Ногинская гимназия»

Новицкая Ирина Владимировна

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МЕТОДИЧЕСКАЯ ЗАПИСКА

Предлагаемое учебное пособие предназначено для практических занятий по курсу «Художественная литература Великобритании XIX-XX веков» в 9 - 11 классах.

Данное учебное пособие  представляет собой сборник коммуникативно-ориентированных заданий, направленных на развитие устной и письменной речи, логического и аргументированного высказывания, расширение словарного запаса учеников на основе чтения адаптированного романа  Дж. Остин “Разум и чувства” (Jane Austen Sense and Sensibility retold by Clare West,  stage 5. Oxford University Press, 2002).

Пособие также ставит своей целью овладение учениками навыками самостоятельной работы такими как: нахождение в тексте необходимой информации, использование различных форм изложения мысли по прочитанному материалу (анализ, обобщение и др.).

Пособие рассчитано на одиннадцать языковых занятий. Десять занятий отводятся проработке отдельных частей книги, а одиннадцатое (заключительное) занятие предполагает обсуждение произведения в целом: проблематики, главных персонажей, языка и стиля писателя, впечатления от прочитанного и т.д.

Каждый из десяти разделов пособия имеет следующую структуру:

1. Активный словарь к соответствующей части произведения (Active vocabulary).  Предполагается,  что уже в процессе прочтения очередного отрывка произведения ученик обращает внимание на выделенный лексический материал, а затем активно использует его при обсуждении содержания данного отрывка.

2. Задания (темы и вопросы) для передачи содержания (Who or what in the chapters?  Interpret the meaning of the following lines from the text. Say who made the utterances and under what circumstance). Данные задания обеспечивают концентрацию внимания учеников на наиболее важных и значимых моментах произведения. Эти задания призваны помочь ученикам при домашней подготовке к уроку по конкретному отрывку произведения.

3. Задания для анализа (Questions and topics for analysis). Эти задания ставят своей задачей развитие навыка неподготовленной речи, давая возможность ученику высказать свое мнение, принять участие в дискуссии.

4. Креативное письмо (Writing).

Одиннадцатый раздел представляет список вопросов для заключительного обсуждения произведения.

        Автор

ASSIGNMENT 1

(Chapter 1)

Active vocabulary:

to intend unkindness         to tramp smb into marriage

as a sign of (smb’s) affection         to approve of

to survive smb by some years                                            to be related to smb by half blood

to appear unforgivable         to do anything mean

to be eager in everything         to turn smth down ( to be turned down by)  to see with concern         to return smb’s affection                                                                                                 to be determined to do smth

Who or what in the chapter:

1. had received a large inheritance from his mother?  
2. had very little money, and needed the Norland fortune?
3. did not live to carry out his plan?
4. did not need any invitation from her mother-in-low?
5. had a great deal of intelligence and common sense?
6. could hardly control her feelings and was very similar to her mother?
7. seemed likely to grow up without her sisters’ advantages?
8. had an open, affectionate heart?
9. believed that love itself would solve all the problems?
10. offered Mrs Dashwood a small house near his home in Devonshire?

Interpret the meaning of the following lines from the text:

1. So a spoilt child was preferred to Henry Dashwood’s gentle wife and daughters, in spite of the years of loving care.
2. Such a request at such a time naturally had an effect on him.
3. If he had married a pleasanter woman, he would probably have been even more respected.
4. Mrs Dashwood and Marianne encouraged each other in the violence of their unhappiness, becoming more and more miserable.
5. He decided to offer no more to his father’s widow and daughters than such neighbourly assistance as his wife suggested.
6. As soon as she saw the smallest sign of love in his behaviour to Elinor, she considered their serious attachment as certain, and looked forward to their marriage in the near future.
7. She knew that his mother was making life difficult for him, and would perhaps disapprove of his marrying a woman with no great fortune.

Say who made these utterances and under what circumstances. Discuss the motives of the speaker and the moral implication of each utterance:

1. It’s better, on such occasions, to do too much, rather than too little.
2. The question is, what you can afford to do. In fact I begin to think they need no extra money.
3. If I give them a present of fifty pounds now and then, I will, I think, be keeping my promise to my father in the smallest manner.
4. He is very pleasant but there is something missing. There is no fire in his eyes. And I’m afraid he has no real taste.
5. Oh, cold-hearted Elinor! Why should you be ashamed of expressing love?

Questions and topics for analysis:

1. Compare Elinor and Marianne. Speak about the tension in the characters of Elinor and Marianne, between the older sister's "sense" and the younger sister's "sensibility," the duality which the novel's title refers to.
2. Speak of John Dashwood and his wife. Find the proofs that J. Austen is unsparingly critical of the characters she dislikes, but conveys her criticism with a pointed subtlety, which makes it all the more forceful.

Writing:

1. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Give your reasons. The opening discussion of money and marriage immediately establishes the important role that ordinary economic concerns play in Austen's novel. Austen refuses to romanticize; she recognizes that material realities constrain love and marriage.

ASSIGNMENT 2

(Chapter 2)

Active vocabulary:

to give smb assistance in smth/doing smth                social call

to make oneself  at home                                                   to be loud in one’s admiration

Who or what in the chapter:

1. soon began to lose hope?
2. was well built and in good condition?
3. was a good-looking, cheerful man of about forty?
4. didn’t have her husband’s warmth, or anything of interest to say?
5. was a cheerful, fat, rather vulgar old lady, who laughed and talked a great deal?
6. was an absolute old bachelor, because he was on the wrong side of thirty-five?
7. was remarkably quick at discovering attachments?
8. was very self-controlled, never sad or restless or miserable?

Interpret the meaning of the following lines from the text:

1. She did not in the least intend that Edward and Elinor should be separated.
2. He really felt sorry, because he had decided to limit his promise to his father to this one offer of help, which would not now be of any use.
3. They were wise enough to accept the house as it was.
4. His kindness was not limited to words.
5. A child should be taken on every social call in order to assist conversation.
6. Sir John’s enjoyment of society was much more real than his wife’s.
7. Marianne felt a respect for him that the others, with their lack of taste, did not deserve.
8. Now she had nothing to do but to marry off the rest of the world.
9. It would be a marriage of convenience, if Colonel Brandon married such a woman.

Say who made these utterances and under what circumstances. Discuss the motives of the speaker and the moral implication of each utterance:

1. Dear, dear Norland! I shall miss you all my life!
2. I cannot think a man five years younger than myself so extremely ancient as he appears to you.
3. When is a man to be safe from such cruel jokes, if age and bodily weakness cannot protect him? - My dear child, it must seem to you quite astonishing that my life has lasted to the great age of forty.

Questions and topics for analysis:

1. At Barton Cottage. Speak about the way Mrs Dashwood and her daughters were welcomed by John Middleton and his wife at a new place.
2. Give a character sketch of Middleton family (take into consideration the episode at dinner the Dashwoods were invited to. Were there any other guests? How many of them came for the dinner? Why?).

Writing (choose one topic you like!):

11. In this chapter the author uses different subtle ways of telling the reader that the Middleton family is not the most interesting or agreeable company. What are they ways?

12. Find proofs that in this chapter Austen's satiric voice and her keen understanding of human nature are clearly evident.

ASSIGNMENT 3

(Chapter 3-4/ p.31/)

Active vocabulary:

to mix in society                                              (not) to give a moment’s thought to smth

driving rain        to promise dutifully

to turn one’s ankle        to be in the depth of violent sorrow

Who or what in the chapter:

1. took Marianne into his arms and carried her down the hill?
2. could not be silent when Willoughby spoke of music and dancing?
3. unfortunately lacked all the taste and sensibility of Willoughby?
4. appeared to be deeply in love with Marianne?
5. determined to laugh at Colonel Brandon for being old and dull?
6. believed that that real feelings should never be hidden?
7. spent a considerable time going all over Mrs Smith’s house?
8. rushed out of the room, sobbing uncontrollably?
9. found it difficult to suspect Willoughby’s  intentions?

Interpret the meaning of the following lines from the text:

1. The influence of his looks and elegance touched her deepest feelings.
2. Her imagination was busy, her thoughts were pleasant, and the pain in a turned ankle went unnoticed.
3. Soon he pretended no longer, and came to spend the whole day at her side, in complete enjoyment of her company.
4. Even Elinor found nothing wrong with him, except for the habit of being too ready to express an opinion about other people, and of putting his personal pleasure above social correctness.
5. Elinor only wished their attachment could be less openly shown.
6. This secrecy was so opposed to their general ideas of openness and honesty that Elinor began to doubt whether they were really engaged.
7. Her romantic nature would consider it duty to feed and encourage her misery.

Say who made these utterances and under what circumstances. Discuss the motives of the speaker and the moral implication of each utterance:

1. He is well worth catching. If I were you, I wouldn’t allow my younger sister to have him, in spite of all this falling down hills.
2. Men are very safe with us, however rich they are.
3. Brandon is just the kind of man whom everybody speaks well of, and nobody cares for.
4. Your sister, I understand, does not approve of second attachments.
5. I have found you out, miss, in spite of your cleverness.
6. I’m afraid that whatever is pleasant is not always correct.
7. Do not spoil this house! It is perfect as it is!
8. I am now suffering under a very heavy disappointment.
9. I want no proof of their affection, but of their engagement I do.

Questions and topics for analysis:

1. Give a character sketch of John Willoughby. Speak about the relationship between Marianne and Willoughby that is described as “attachment”. What is Marianne’s interpretation of this term?
2. Elinor reflecting on her sister's relationship with Willoughby. Give proofs that as in all of Austen's novels, marriage here is closely bound up with financial considerations.
3. Willoughby’s departure. Do you consider his reasons for leaving serious enough?

Writing:

1. Agree or disagree with the following statement and prove your point.

These chapters serve as a lens through which to study one of the most important themes in the novel - the role of appearances in the assessment and judgment of character. Chapter 4 reveals that Mrs. Dashwood draws conclusions based on appearances alone, while Elinor suspends judgment until these appearances are confirmed by words.

ASSIGNMENT 4

(Chapter 4/ p.31/-5)

Active vocabulary:

to prevent smb from doing smth

to take an immediate liking to

Who or what in the chapter:

1. spent the most of the night sobbing bitterly and got up with a headache?
2. received the kindest possible welcome from Mrs Dashwood?
3. had no wish to be grant or important?
4. was obviously unhappy?
5. was determined to hide her feelings, and show a brave face to the world?
6. was a serious-looking young man, who made no effort to please or be pleased?
7. happened to be madly fond of children?
8. had a sharp, quick eye, and held herself with a certain air?
9. was anxious that the Steeles and the Dashwood sisters should get to know each other well?
10. carried Edward’s picture everywhere with her?
11. was shocked, confused and miserable?
12. had nothing at all to look forward to in life?

Interpret the meaning of the following lines from the text:

1. No letter from Willoughby came, and none seemed to be expected by Marianne.
2. Elinor smiled again, to her sister describing so accurately her future life with Willoughby.
3. Fortunately for those who use these clever tricks, a fond mother can never hear enough praise of her children, and therefore will swallow anything.
4. She realized that the louder she screamed, the more attention she would receive, and nothing could be done to calm her.
5. Soon Anne Steele congratulated Elinor on her sister’s fortunate engagement to a very fine young man.
6. Elinor pitied her for the lack of education, but disliked her insincerity, her dishonesty, and the narrow self-interest that lay behind all her words and actions.
7. Elinor’s tears flowed more for Edward than herself.
8. What reason could Lucy have for telling Elinor her secret, if not to warn her to keep away from Edward?

Say who made these utterances and under what circumstances. Discuss the motives of the speaker and the moral implication of each utterance:

1. It is he! I know it is!
2. It is not everyone who has your passion for dead leaves.
3. I have always preferred the Church, but that is too ordinary for my family.
4. Greatness has very little, but wealth has much to do with it.
5. Beyond answering our basic needs, money is of no use to us all.
6. Yes, it is Fanny’s hair. It looks lighter than it really is.
7. I would never expect Colonel Bandon to give such information, even if it were true.
8. I am much happier as I am. Mr Palmer is just the kind of man I like. If he was elegant before he married, he still is, because he has not changed at all.
9. I wouldn’t have told you, if I haven’t trusted you completely.
10. I am afraid I cannot advise you in such a situation. You must decide for yourself.

Questions and topics for analysis:

1. Mr and Mrs Palmer – character sketch
2. The Steeles sisters in contrast to the Dashwood sisters.
3. Lucy Steele’s revelation.  Speak about Elinor’s reaction at hearing the news, and the way she digests the news with her characteristic sense and rationality later on.

Writing

2. Agree or disagree and give your reasons:

Austen’s opinion of her characters nearly always coincides with that of Elinor Dashwood.

ASSIGNMENT 5

(Chapter 6)

Active vocabulary:

to set one’s heart on sth                                                 rival          

to appear agitated        to feel distaste for        

restless pain of mind and body        to escape connection with

Who or what in the chapter:

1. unexpectedly invited the elder Miss Dashwoods to stay with her in London?
2. wished to avoid meeting with Edward?
3. determined to find out more about his character and intentions?
4. immediately sat down to write to her mother?
5. seemed to be anxious listening to the sound of every carriage.
6. was clearly astonished and concerned to see Marianne leave the room in such a way?
7. came to look at Marianne and talk to Elinor?
8. hated visitors of any kind except one?
9. felt extreme distaste for Willoughby’s manner of ending the attachment?
10. was a young woman with £50 000 a year?
11. Had no words hard enough to describe Willoughby’s behaviour?

Interpret the meaning of the following lines from the text:

1. During the three-day journey, Elinor had plenty of opportunity to compare Marianne’s delightful expectations with her own acceptance of a cheerless future.
2. She thought with pleasure that the fact of their corresponding must mean they were engaged.
3. She was particularly sorry to see that a man so in love with her sister should see that Marianne felt nothing but bitter disappointment in meeting him.
4. During the next few days, Elinor was both mused and saddened to see Marianne’s new-found interest in the weather.
5. Elinor felt she could not demand greater openness from Marianne than she was herself ready to offer.
6. She saw Marianne, only half dressed, writing as fast as a constant flow of tears would permit her.

Say who made these utterances and under what circumstances. Discuss the motives of the speaker and the moral implication of each utterance:

1. Oh, Elinor! It is Willoughby!
2. I don’t know what you and Mr Willoughby would do about her, between you!
3. Oh my dear mother, you must be wrong to permit an engagement, between a daughter so young and a man so little known, to continue in such a doubtful and mysterious manner.
4. I had not supposed any secrecy intended, as they openly correspond.
5. I beg you, be calm. Try to hide your feelings.
6. I hope I have never given anyone reason to think that I felt more for you than I ever expressed.
7. I obey your orders to return your letters, and the lock of hair which you so kindly offered me.
8. Yes-no-never absolutely. He never said it in so many words, but every day I read it in his eyes. I felt myself as firmly engaged as if lawyers had written the agreement for us.

Questions and topics for analysis:

1. Elinor and Marianne in London. Marianne’s urgent pleas for Willoughby to come visit her at Mrs Jennings’s home, even though they were never formally engaged. How can you explain Elinor’s reaction to her sister’s behaviour?
2. A party in town. Describe Willoughby’s behaviour at the party. Marianne’s state of mind after the party. The last letter from Willoughby. Why did he choose this way to inform Marianne of his upcoming engagement to another woman?

Writing (choose only one topic!):

3. Marianne and Elinor - speak about the danger of excessive sensibility and the importance of looking beyond appearance when judging human character.
4. All of Austen’s villains are tricksters, who initially seem charming, attractive and witty, turn out to be fibbers or downright frauds. Do you agree that Willoughby’s last letter proclaims him to be a villain - a glamorous seducer as well as a corrupt philanderer?

ASSIGNMENT 6

(Chapter 7)

Active vocabulary:

to have only a short while to live                                                      to shorten one’s stay with

to accuse sb of dishonorable behaviour        a speedy return to

to challenge sb to a duel        to speak forcefully about

Who or what in the chapter:

1. was determined to avoid Mrs Jennings’ presence?
2. had reached the depth of her suffering?
3. seemed disturbed and unhappy?
4. was very like Marianne, with an eager mind, a warm heart and great sensibility.
5. was sent to join the army?
6. spent his time on pleasures most unsuitable for a husband?
7. had done what no man of feeling would do?
8. listened attentively, and appeared to accept Willoughby’s guilt?
9. spoke forcefully about Willoughby and determined to have nothing to do with him?
10. would be a woman of elegance and fortune?
11. began to think that Elinor would become Mrs Brandon?
12. gave a grand dinner party?
13. was a little, thin woman, with disagreeable expression?
14. prepared herself to hear officially of the engagement?

Interpret the meaning of the following lines from the text:

1. It is unfortunate that many people of excellent intelligence and character, like Marianne, are neither reasonable nor fair.
2. The letter brought them no comfort, as it expressed Mrs Dashwood’s complete confidence in, and affection for, Willoughby.
3. There was every reason to think that she had left him only to sink deeper into a life of dishonor.
4. One day, she will doubtless feel grateful, when she compares her situation with that of my poor Eliza.
5. Marianne received the news bravely at first and said nothing; but the tears came later, as wildly and as passionately as before.
6. It was a very difficult moment for the three of them, but Elinor took control of the situation.
7. Elinor had every reason to expect that this painful meeting would not be repeated.

Say who made these utterances and under what circumstances. Discuss the motives of the speaker and the moral implication of each utterance:

1. She is only interested in me because she will enjoy telling her friends all the details of my sad situation.
2. If I didn’t consider it useful, I wouldn’t bother you...
3. She left to my care her little child, Eliza, the child of her first seducer.
4. A very little effort on your side will catch him.
5. It is not actually arranged yet, but the lady is Miss Morton.
6. Pity me, dear Miss Dashwood! In a minute I shall see the person on whom all my future happiness depends!
7. Perhaps, Miss Marianne you think young men never keep their appointments or their promises?

Questions and topics for analysis:

1. Colonel Brandon reveals the truth about Willoughby.
2. Lucy Steel visits the Dashwoods to tell Elinor how pleasantly surprised she was by Mrs. Ferrars's favorable behavior towards her at the party.

Writing

Agree or disagree with the following statement:

While the plot of the entire novel is structured around the physical movement of characters, only the male characters fully control their travels and the lives of women are governed by an endless series of invitations.

ASSIGNMENT 7

(Chapter 8 – 9/ p.74/)

Active vocabulary:

to be fierce in one’s anger against                                         to misjudge sb

to spare sb the sorrow of (knowing)                                      to help sb through difficulties

to fall sobbing into each other’s arms          to be astonished by

a worthless scoundrel            to give away a living

to feel for sb sincerely          to be spared the need to do sth

Who or what in the chapter:

1. has had a baby and was clearly in need of a fond mother’s advice?
2. was a kind creature but of no great intelligence?
3. were told to pack their bags and leave at once?
4. knew better than anyone how to make the most of everything?
5. was anxious to tell her sister the truth and to prepare her to hear the subject discussed?
6. said that she would never think well of anybody again?
7. has all ended in a most unhappy separation?
8. were quite well and happy in each other’s love?
9. invited Mrs Jennings and the Miss Dashwoods to their home in Somerset, only a day’s journey away from Barton?
10. promised to tell Edward the good news?
11. began to suspect that the colonel might have a particular reason for wishing to help any friends of hers?
12. had helped to smooth the path towards Edward’s engagement?
13. was full of his own self-importance?

Interpret the meaning of the following lines from the text:

1. For some time, Edward seemed a second Willoughby to her.
2. The next morning brought a test of her self-control.
3. He still insisted that he would not break the engagement.
4. And if he entered any profession, she would do her best to prevent him succeeding in it.
5. A living at Delaford had just become vacant, and the colonel was asking Elinor to offer it to Edward.
6. If I want to see a happy couple, I know where to look for them in future.
7. Edward must be the vicar they had chosen to carry out the wedding ceremony.
8. Her astonishment and confusion were very great.

Say who made these utterances and under what circumstances. Discuss the motives of the speaker and the moral implication of each utterance:

1. Could you have believed such a thing possible?
2. I cannot bear people who think money or greatness is important.
3. Four month. Lucy told me at Barton, and I promised to keep it secret.
4. All that time you were looking after me in my misery, this has been on your heart?
5. He will always do his duty, and Lucy does not lack sense.
6. She saw me as a rival and was delighted to see me defeated.
7. His young brother will be wealthy while he remains poor.
8. I shall always remember your great kindness, and so will Edward.
9. I wish I could get him a living, with all my heart.
10. My dear madam, what can you be thinking of?
11. But now it is too late. He must be punished, that is certain.

Questions and topics for analysis:

1. Mrs Jennings returns home from a visit to Mrs. Palmer with the shocking news that Lucy Steele and Edward Ferrars have been engaged to one another for over a year. Speak of Marianne’s reaction on account of the news.
2. The Colonel asks Elinor to inform Edward of his offer, and Elinor finds herself in the rather uncomfortable position.
3. John Dashwood shares the news that Robert Ferrars will inherit his mother's estate in place of his brother.

Writing: What makes Colonel Brandon offer Edward a means of supporting a wife in spite of his disinheritance?

ASSIGNMENT 8

(Chapters 9 /p.74/ -10)

Active vocabulary:

to be capable of                             to be at fault

to have a sore throat                                    to love by halves

to explain away sth

Who or what in the chapter:

1. was comfortable and modern, with large, well-kept gardens and woods?
2. was capable of being a pleasant companion, and only occasionally rude to his wife and mother-in-law?
3. felt heavy and feverish, with pains all over her body?
4. offered to stay, in case a gentleman’s help was needed?
5. needed the money of Miss Grey to pay his debts?
6. was as certain of the colonel’s excellent character as she had once been of Willoughby’s?
7. showed a new firmness of mind and calmness of expression?
8. had always had a secret hope that sth might happen to prevent his marrying Lucy.
9. entered looking pale, agitated and afraid?
10. could now afford marrying very soon, and move into vicar’s house at Delaford.
11. agreed to marry a man she had once considered dull, and far too old for marriage?
12. was saddened to hear of Marianne’s marriage, but didn’t die of a broken heart?

Interpret the meaning of the following lines from the text:

1. His pleasure in her conversation and his respect for her opinion would have been enough to justify Mrs Jennings’ view of his attachment, and even, perhaps, to make Elinor suspect herself.
2. In his concern Elinor saw the quick feelings and needless alarm of a lover.
3. When the doctor came, he had to confess that his medicines had failed, and that the infection was as strong as ever.
4. She rushed into the sitting-room, and saw – Willoughby.
5. She told me what to write, and watched over me as I wrote the letter.
6. Marianne looked quickly at Elinor’s white face, and burst into uncontrolled sobbing.
7. Edward was now free, and it was not hard to guess how he would use this freedom.
8. The whole of Lucy’s behaviour in the matter may be seen as a most encouraging example of what self-interest can do to gain wealth and position.
9. Marianne remain his idea of a perfect woman, and he often used to admire a new young beauty as ‘nothing to compare with Mrs Brandon’.

Say who made these utterances and under what circumstances. Discuss the motives of the speaker and the moral implication of each utterance:

1. I shall never see her again if she does not come soon!
2. But I soon found myself sincerely fond of your sister, and the happiest hours of my life were spent with her.
3. I cannot see how you will explain away your part I that terrible business.
4. How miserable I was when I saw her sorrow and disappointment!
5. She can never be more lost to you than she is now.
6. I know now that my own uncontrolled feelings caused my suffering, and even my illness was my own entire fault.
7. I can never forget Willoughby, but my memories no longer make me miserable.
8. Yes, madam, very well, and extremely happy.

Questions and topics for analysis:

1. Marianne’s illness as an affliction of both soul and physical body.
2. Willoughby’s passionate confession. The effect produced.
3. Servant Thomas announces the new of ‘Mr. Ferrars’s’ engagement. Dwell on the reactions of Elinor and Marianne. Do you agree that they are ironic?

Writing: agree or disagree with one of the following statements

10. By reintroducing Willoughby at the end of her novel, Austen grants him more depth than an ordinary villain enjoys.
11. Speak about the emotional key of the closing chapter.

ASSIGNMENT 9

General discussion of the novel

1. Interpret the title of the novel. What is its message?

2. The main themes in the novel.

3. Critics have claimed that the whole plot of Sense and Sensibility depends on the tension between what is concealed and what is shared with others - the private and the public. Do you agree with this statement?

4. Although it ends with the marriages of the two main female characters, some readers have claimed that of all of Austen's novels, Sense and Sensibility has the saddest ending. Do you agree with this statement?

5. The laws of inheritance and succession that govern the fate of the Dashwood family property in the novel.

6. Do you find Marianne's decision to marry Colonel Brandon to be a plausible conclusion? Why or why not?

7. Elinor and Marianne's younger sister Margaret plays a very minor role in the novel. Why do you think Austen included this character? Does she further any of the plot? Does she shed light on any of the other characters?

8. Although Elinor Dashwood is not a first-person narrator, most of the story is told through her eyes and Austen seems to agree with all of her opinions. Why do you think the author chose this method of storytelling?

9. What is the role of letters in Sense and Sensibility? When does Austen include the letters that one character sends to another, and when does she merely mention that such a letter was sent? How do you think Austen determined whether a letter would be displayed or simply described? How do both kinds of letters further the novel's plot or characterizations?

10. Before he abandons Marianne, is John Willoughby a likeable character? Does Austen give any indication early on in the novel that he is not as he appears?