SENSE AND SENSIBILITY is the story of an English family of sisters who are turned out of their family home by the laws of primogeniture. They must seek their fortunes through advantageous matches. Elinor Dashwood represents "sense" among the sisters, embodying moderation and prudence. Her sister Marianne represents "sensibility," a susceptibility to feelings that causes her much pain but also opens her up to the richness of love. Jane Austen's acute observations of differences in class and wealth, as well as her sharp mocking wit, helps her to limn her memorable characters as they find their way towards mates who will be true, frank, and honest with them. The sisters' experiences, both good and bad, leave them the wiser and ourselves much the richer.