I must admit that I watched S&S2 before reading the novel, so I went into the book already liking the main characters, but on this read through I wanted to notice when they actually become endearing.

Elinor's is instantly a character we can admire: her strength and struggle over her father's death is admirable, especially when contrasted to Marianne and Mrs. Dashwood, and when we consider that she received no help from anyone. But I don't think she has really become lovable yet. I think I actually start to like her when she defends Colonel Brandon (saying that he might be very happy with a lady of 27), and I start to agree with her when she feels slightly uneasy over Willoughby.

Marianne isn't exactly favorably shown at this point, but I do like her for trying to hush up Margaret (his name begins with an F!). Anyone with younger siblings, I think, has let an opinion slip at home which they are mortified to have come out at public at the worst possible moment! ;-) Oh dear, though I do censure pretty much the rest of her opinions and behavior, I do feel for her (and Elinor!) here.

I like Edward. I like that Elinor has found a sensible companion in him, when the rest of her family are wallowing in their grief. In short, Edward is there for Elinor when she needs a friend, and though we don't know much of him, I do like him.

The same pretty much goes for Colonel Brandon. He is a friend to Elinor when she is lonely: her sister is completely wrapped up in Willoughby, and her mother is wrapped up in watching them. Elinor is missing Edward. The Colonel quietly befriends her. Good for him.

Willoughby is certainly dashing, or so we're told, but Elinor feels slightly uneasy about him, and at this point, I dislike his picking on the Colonel.