The original CliffsNotes study guides offer expert commentary on major themes, plots, characters, literary devices, and historical background -- all to help you gain greater insight into great works you're bound to study for school or pleasure. In CliffsNotes on Austen's Sense and Sensibility, you follow the romantic lives of two sisters, Elinor and Marianne Dashwood, each of whom pursues love according to her temperament and beliefs. The "sense" and "sensibility" of the title are personified in Elinor's calm and rational demeanor and Marianne's emotional and unrestrained reactions. Which one of these approaches to love and life will result in marriage? In this study guide, you'll find Life and Background on the Author, a Brief Synopsis, and Critical Commentaries on each chapter of Sense and Sensibility. You'll also find in-depth character analyses and critical essays on the following: Austen's Writing Style The Plot and Theme Irony Critical Reception A selected bibliography Classic literature or modern-day treasure -- you'll understand it all with expert information and insight from CliffsNotes study guides.