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The Library
of Alexandria

Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 28 summary

Chapter 28 of 50 · 6 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 28, Marianne meets Willoughby at a crowded party, but he greets her coldly, acknowledges her message, and turns back to another woman. Elinor takes her distressed sister home and concludes that his feelings have changed, while Marianne insists that some misunderstanding must explain his behavior.

What happens

  1. After several days without word from Willoughby, the sisters accompany Lady Middleton to a party.
  2. Marianne sees Willoughby speaking with a young woman and eagerly tries to attract his attention.
  3. Willoughby reluctantly takes Marianne’s hand, acknowledges receiving news of her arrival, and returns to his companion.
  4. Marianne demands an explanation, but Elinor urges her to wait until they can speak privately.
  5. After Willoughby leaves, Lady Middleton takes the sisters home, where Marianne goes to bed.
  6. Elinor concludes that Willoughby’s affection has faded, though she believes his original feelings are genuine.

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In this chapter

What to notice

The sentence presents Elinor’s conclusion about Willoughby. It separates her judgment from Marianne’s insistence that a misunderstanding explains his coldness.

Quick check

How does Willoughby answer Marianne’s questions about her notes?

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