Elinor's Duties and Emotions: Conflicting Forces in Sense and Sensibility Anonymous 12th Grade

Elinor’s mind is pulled in conflicting directions by her desires and obligations. Elinor loves Edward and wants to be with him, but after hearing about Lucy’s engagement to him, she withdraws her feelings. However, Elinor is aware of Lucy’s jealousy and deception, and doubts Edward’s love for Lucy. Elinor’s desire to be with Edward and her obligation to abide by society’s rules create conflicting feelings within Elinor.

Although Elinor hides her feelings, it is evident that she feels deep affection for Edward. When Edward arrives at Norland, he and Elinor become acquainted. Through Elinor’s mother’s eyes, it is apparent that Elinor and Edward love each other and will get married. However, Elinor’s sister Marianne questions how Elinor could love a man who is so untasteful and plain. In response, Elinor states that she has ‘[seen] a great deal of him” and “studied his sentiments and heard his opinions.” She continues on to praise Edward, pronouncing that his “mind is well read,” “his imagination lively,” and “his taste delicate and pure.” Elinor also states that she knows Edward “so well she thinks him handsome” (Austen, 22). Through Elinor’s compliments, it is apparent that she admires and cares for Edward. It is also evident...