Sense and Sensibility 2

It's amazing what characterization can do.

Three sisters... each one with their own distinct personality.

Elinor, the oldest sister is introverted and rational. Being the oldest sister in a family without a father, she is naturally responsible and thoughtful about others around her. As soon as Edward Ferrars is introduced in the book, the reader begins to see that they are a perfect couple: both just as sweet as the other.

Marianne, the second sister is passionate and inspired. She is sometimes hot-tempered, but is loyal to her beleifs and will never stray from her ideals. Her character provides a contrast to Elinor, and in fact conflicts arise when Marianne feels like Elinor is 'unemotional' just because she is not as vocal about her feelings like Marianne.

The youngest sister (I forget her name...) acts as a gauge of honesty thoughout the story. Because she is young and innocent, Jane Austen uses her to show the readers how to feel about each character. Because Edward gained the little girl's trust in the beginning of the book, the reader realises that ultimately he is a good character.