This paper examines Austen's novel, "Sense and Sensibility", as a particular genre of fiction that lies between the close of the Romantic era and before the Victorian era. As such, the novel can be situated in relation to other kinds of women's 18th century fiction, works that provide representations of women in middle class confines. The external forces of society are the focus of the narrative, and the characters react to their lives accordingly. While this is not indicative of Austen's later more successful novels, there is nevertheless a feminist value to "Sense and Sensibility". This paper attempts to explore various feminist issues in Austen's first novel. 12 pgs. Bibliography lists 5 sources.
