Colonel Brandon is the Only "Sensible" one in Sense and Sensibility

While Elinor is often positioned as the “sensible” one in the novel, her sensibility tends to lean heavily towards emotional repression. Elinor is often the one who keeps her emotions in check for the sake of others, particularly for her family. Colonel Brandon by contrast, shows that sensible behavior is not about repression but about emotional control that allows for care, compassion, and understanding.

Colonel Brandon’s romance with Marianne is the culmination of his sensibility. Unlike Willoughby’s tempestuous and self-serving affection, Colonel Brandon’s love for Marianne is built on steadfastness, respect, and emotional maturity. Edward on the other hand lacks decisiveness, especially when it comes to love. He is engaged to Lucy Steele for years without making any effort to break off the engagement, despite the fact that he is clearly in love with Elinor. I know he is a calm and well-meaning character, but his indecisiveness was a deal breaker for me.

Rest of the characters come across one-dimensional because they are, in a sense, products of their time. They reflect the social norms and expectations of Victorian society, and their behavior is shaped by the constraints of that period. Which is why I think Jane Austen used this to critique and highlight the flaws within that society.

So my favourite characters are Elinor and Colonel Brandon. I would love to know your thoughts and interpretations on this.

Cheers