Annie Holmquist | September 27, 2016
My hometown has recently been hit with a barrage of ads for the local high-end theatre’s production of Sense and Sensibility. Like all of Jane Austen’s works, the novel manages to marry everyone off, but only after bringing the characters through the harrowing ups and downs of uncertain romantic relationships.
As I was reflecting on the story, I realized how the two main characters – Elinor and Marianne – are perfect examples of the different approaches taken toward emotions throughout history.
Elinor, the elder of the two sisters, reflects the classic view of emotions. She sets aside an aching heart and numerous personal slights in order to encourage her family and see that they are not dragged down by her troubles. Like George Washington, she is an individual of “great self-command,” who controls her emotions even when it is extremely difficult.
Her sister Marianne is the exact opposite. She faces her great trial with uncontrollable weeping and wailing, unafraid to suck others into the vortex of her sorrow.
https://www.intellectualtakeout.org/blog/how-emotionalism-slowly-replacing-rationalism
