Assignment of literature 

Name: Suzan Pathan 

College Name : ~Maharani Shri Nandkuvarba mahila arts and commerce College Bhavnagar

Subject: English

Professor Name: Shivani Mam 

Date of submission: 4 september 2025 

T.Y B.A SEM:5

PAPER NAME:  The study of novel

Home ASSIGNMENT 

              Sense and sensiblity 
                              -by jane austen

✦About Jane Austen

Born : 16 December 1775 Steventon, Hampshire, England

Died : 18 July 1817 (aged 41) Winchester, Hampshire, England

 Occupation : Novelist 

● Notable work : 

● Sense and Sensibility (1811)

● Pride and Prejudice (1813) 

● Mansfield Park (1814) 

● Emma (1816) 

● Northanger Abbey (1817) 

● Persuasion (1817) 

● Sense and Sensibility (working title; Elinor and Marianne) is the first novel by the English author Jane Austen, published in 1811. 

Main character of sense and sensiblity

The main characters in Jane Austen's "Sense and Sensibility" are:

- Elinor Dashwood: The sensible and reserved older sister, representing "sense". She's practical, responsible, and often prioritizes reason over emotions. Elinor falls in love with Edward Ferrars, but her cautious nature makes her hesitant to express her feelings.

- Marianne Dashwood: The emotional and expressive younger sister, representing "sensibility". She's passionate, romantic, and wears her heart on her sleeve. Marianne's character serves as a contrast to Elinor's, highlighting the importance of finding a balance between reason and emotion.

 -Edward Ferrars: A kind-hearted and honorable man who falls in love with Elinor. He's torn between his duty to his family and his love for Elinor.

- Colonel Brandon: A mature and honorable gentleman who becomes romantically involved with Marianne. He's quiet, dependable, and caring, with a deep sense of responsibility.

- John Willoughby: A charming but ultimately untrustworthy suitor who captures Marianne's heart. His character serves as a foil to Colonel Brandon's, highlighting the differences between superficial charm and genuine character.

Other notable characters include² ³:

- Mrs. Dashwood: The mother of Elinor and Marianne, who's romantic, impractical, and loving.

- Lucy Steele: A cunning and ambitious young woman who creates tension and drama within the Dashwood family.

Lady Middleton and Mrs. Jennings: Friends of the Dashwood family who provide both comic relief and sage advice.

→Here's a summary of Jane Austen's "Sense and Sensiblity"

The novel follows the lives of two sisters, Elinor and Marianne Dashwood, as they navigate love, heartbreak, and social expectations in 19th-century England.

Plot;

After their father's death, the Dashwood sisters face financial uncertainty. Elinor, the sensible older sister, falls in love with Edward Ferrars, but he's already engaged to someone else. Marianne, the emotional younger sister, falls for the charming but untrustworthy John Willoughby, who ultimately betrays her.

Themes:

1. Love vs. Social Expectations

2. Reason vs. Emotion

3. Heartbreak and Resilience

4. Social Class and Status

Symbolism:

1. Nature: Austen uses nature imagery to reflect the characters' emotions and experiences

.

2. Settings: The novel's settings, such as the countryside and city, symbolize different aspects of life and society.

Conclusion : Overall, "Sense and Sensibility" is a thought-provoking novel that explores the complexities of love, relationships, and social expectations, offering timeless insights into human nature.

Essay

The old man and the sea 
                                  -by ernest hemingway.

The Human Struggle Against Nature

In "The Old Man and the Sea," Hemingway masterfully weaves a tale of human struggle, perseverance, and the eternal conflict between man and nature. The novella follows Santiago, an aging Cuban fisherman, as he embarks on a journey to catch a giant marlin, symbolizing the ultimate test of human willpower and determination.

The Symbolism of the Marlin and the Sea

The marlin represents the noble struggle of life, embodying Santiago's dreams, aspirations, and the human desire to overcome adversity. The sea, vast and unpredictable, serves as a backdrop for Santiago's introspection, echoing themes of loneliness, struggle, and courage. Hemingway's depiction of the sea as "la mar" underscores its nurturing yet unforgiving nature, highlighting the delicate balance between human existence and the natural world.

Perseverance and Determination

Santiago's unwavering determination to catch the marlin showcases his resilience in the face of overwhelming odds. Despite his 84-day streak of bad luck, Santiago remains optimistic, driven by his pride and respect for the sea and its creatures. His solitary battle with the marlin becomes a metaphor for the human condition – a continuous struggle against forces beyond our control, where victory is defined not by the outcome but by the pursuit itself.

The Nature of Existence

The novella explores the complex relationship between humans and nature, highlighting the tension between respecting and conquering the natural world. Santiago's admiration for the marlin elevates their battle beyond a simple hunt, turning it into a test of wills and a reflection on human existence. This dynamic underscores the existential questions posed by Hemingway: Are life's battles worth fighting if they ultimately end in loss? Or is the fight itself the true measure of glory

Themes and Character Analysis

Key themes in the novella include:

- Man vs. Nature: Santiago's struggle against the sea and the marlin

- Perseverance and Resilience: Santiago's determination despite adversity

- Pride and Humility: Santiago's balance between confidence and respect for nature

- Isolation and Companionship: Santiago's relationship with Manolin and the sea

Santiago, the protagonist, embodies resilience, determination, and dignity in the face of decline. His character serves as a testament to the human spirit's capacity to endure and persist against overwhelming odds.

Conclusion:

"The Old Man and the Sea" is a timeless tale of human struggle, perseverance, and the indomitable spirit of existence. Through Santiago's journey, Hemingway offers profound insights into the human condition, highlighting the importance of resilience, determination, and respect for nature. As a literary masterpiece, the novella continues to captivate readers with its universal themes and symbolism, cementing its place as one of Hemingway's most celebrated works.