Indifference in
Sense and Sensibility
333
Sense and Sensibility
encourages us to reconsider these
misconceptions. The problem of indifference does not detract
from, but underlies, the greatness of Austen’s art. In the form
of unconcern and reserve, it infiltrates Austen’s characteri-
zation, plot and even sentence formation. Feeling and
indifference are not antithetical. Powerful affection, Austen
shows, can lie behind an emotionless appearance. The former
is even necessary to sustain the latter. Of course Brontë is
wrong in denouncing Austen as a stranger to strong passions.
But the idea of emotional inadequacy that she raises provides a
new perspective through which we can read Austen’s novel
afresh. Austen’s first-published novel is not about sense or
sensibility, but about feeling indifferent and feelings in
indifference.
