Discussion Questions for Sense and Sensibility

Hello fellow book clubbers,

I am so excited and proud of us for finishing our second Jane Austen novel!!!  It is such a great feeling and still an honor to be reading her work. I must say we are doing an excellent job so far in sticking to our new year’s resolution. Below are the questions to answer about Sense and Sensibility.  Also, feel free to discuss any closing thoughts or ask any additional questions you may have for Sense and Sensibility.

1.)  Talk about the significance of Austen's title. What is the difference in meaning between the words "sense" and "sensibility" ... and which sister represents which word? Which word most represents your own approach to life and love? Which matters more...or are they both equally important in choosing a mate?

2.)  Looking deeper into the sub-characters in Sense and Sensibility what are your opinions of Mrs. Jennings, Mrs. Fanny Dashwood, and Lucy Steele?

3.)  What are your impressions of Elinor? What are your impressions of Edward? Are they a good match?

4.) After Colonel Brandon told Elinor about his and Willoughby’s past, did it offer deeper insight into their characters? Did your impression of either change?    

5.) What is your impression of Marianne at the Beginning of the novel? What is your impression of Marianne at the end of the novel?

6.)  What were Willoughby’s motives for coming to talk to Elinor while Marianne was sick?

7.) Do you feel Willoughby truly loved Marianne? If so why or why not?

8.)  Do you think Colonel Brandon and Marianne are a good match? Is it completely out of character for Marianne to end up with Colonel Brandon? Is she abandoning her romantic ideals?

9.) When do you think Marianne fell in love with Colonel Brandon?

10.)  Do you find the ending satisfactory for both sisters? Do you feel the two make the right choice for happiness? Why or why not?

11.) What are “second attachments” and how are they important to this story?

12.) What role did marriage and social class play throughout this novel? How were the characters affected by it?

13.) How does Sense and Sensibility compare to Pride and Prejudice?

14.) Would you recommend this novel to a friend? Why or why not?

15.) Compare and contrast the 1995 movie version of Sense and Sensibility to the novel.

Feel free to take a week or so to answer the above questions, but don’t forget to start reading Mansfield Park.  Just as a reminder the dates for our third Jane Austen novel are March 1^st – April 30^th.  I know Mansfield Park looks a little intimidating but I know we can do it. We have done such a great job so far in sticking to the schedule.

Happy Reading!!!!!!!!!!!!!!