Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 15 summary
Chapter 15 of 50 · 10 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 15, Willoughby abruptly leaves for London, saying Mrs. Smith has sent him on business, and Marianne gives way to grief. His awkward farewell makes Elinor question whether the couple are engaged, while Mrs. Dashwood defends him through an explanation that rests on assumptions rather than confirmed facts.
What happens
- Mrs. Dashwood returns from visiting Lady Middleton and finds Marianne in tears and Willoughby preparing to leave.
- Willoughby says Mrs. Smith sends him to London on business, and he avoids accepting an invitation to return.
- After his departure, Elinor considers whether he lacks serious intentions or has quarreled with Marianne.
- Mrs. Dashwood argues that Mrs. Smith opposes the match and that Willoughby must conceal his engagement.
- Elinor accepts that this explanation is possible but stresses that neither lover confirms an engagement.
- Marianne appears at dinner, breaks into tears, and remains overwhelmed throughout the evening despite her family’s efforts.
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Sense and Sensibility, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.
In this chapter
What to notice
Elinor separates visible love from a confirmed promise to marry. This distinction defines her disagreement with her mother and preserves the uncertainty surrounding Willoughby’s departure.
Quick check
What reason does Willoughby give for leaving?
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Sense and Sensibility, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.
200,000+ classics to read, hear and hold
15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.
Try 3 months free
