Here is an example of the difference between sensible Elinor and emotional Marianne: Elinor pushed her own feelings aside and got things done, while Marianne lamented. She, like Marianne, shed tears over leaving the home she loved, but this did not prevent Elinor from acting on her understanding of just how small their income and their new home were to be.
It was Elinor who, despite her own feelings, tried to make John and Fanny feel welcome in their new home.
Marianne, on the other hand, Her temperament was like her mother's, in fact. Mrs. Dashwood, however, allowed herself to be guided by her eldest daughter, Elinor, because she understood and valued Elinor's understanding and good judgment.
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