The story in one page
Laura recounts her chaotic youth to her friend Marianne, detailing a series of romantic catastrophes that define her sensibility. She meets Edward, who has married her against his father's wishes, and joins him in a lifestyle of traveling and fainting whenever the plot requires a transition. Along the way, they meet Sophia and Augustus, fellow enthusiasts of emotional excess who prioritize 'tender sympathy' over paying bills or keeping their grandfathers' money. The narrative shifts into other fragments, including the Lesley family's gossipy disputes over thin beef and bad marriages, concluding with a brief history of England that ignores facts in favor of supporting the House of Stuart.
Who's who
- Laura
A woman who chronicles her past romantic adventures and fainting spells.
- Sophia
Laura’s sympathetic friend who faints frequently and loses her grandfather’s banknotes.
- Sir George Lesley
A fifty-seven-year-old 'gay lad' who neglects his daughters for London.
- Charlotte Lutterell
A practical correspondent who takes great pride in her mince pies.
- Mary, Queen of Scots
The historical figure whom the author attempts to vindicate entirely.
What it's really about
- Sensibility
- Mocking the era's obsession with extreme emotional displays and fainting.
- Domestic Competition
- Siblings and friends comparing their drawing, cooking, and romantic prospects.
Why it's memorable
- Two friends fainting simultaneously in each other's arms upon losing their inheritance.
- A girl suspicious of whether Vauxhall beef is truly as thin as reported.
The ending, explained
Spoilers — show the ending
The author concludes her history by stating that Charles I was innocent of all charges simply because he was a Stuart.
For your book club
- Why does Laura view 'tender sympathy' as more important than financial stability?
- How does the author use the epistolary format to highlight the vanity of the writers?