Who John Willoughby is
John Willoughby enters Marianne's life when she slips and hurts her ankle while walking in the rain. He carries her home, and his handsome appearance and easy charm soon draw her attention. He is the heir of a lady who lives nearby, and he has a gift for saying the right thing.
John Willoughby and the others in the story
Marianne finds in Willoughby someone who shares her tastes in books, music and the beauty of a sunset. They sing, read and go out alone together, often speaking in ways that leave everyone else outside their conversation. When he asks for a lock of her hair, their closeness gives others still more reason to speculate.
Elinor likes Willoughby's charm, but she worries about how openly he and Marianne show their attachment. Marianne resents her sister's questions about whether they are engaged, seeing no reason to hide her happiness. Colonel Brandon grows quieter around Willoughby, while Marianne takes his reserve for jealousy or dullness.
Questions
Who is John Willoughby?
John Willoughby is a charming young man whose rescue of Marianne begins a close attachment between them.
Why does Marianne like Willoughby?
Marianne likes him because he seems to share her feelings and her enthusiasm for poetry, music and beauty.
Why does Elinor worry about Willoughby and Marianne?
Elinor worries because their public closeness suggests an engagement that neither has confirmed.