Yes, passion!!!
Posted by Barbara on October 21, 1997 at 23:23:50:
In response to Passion, written by Elizabeth Rose on October 21, 1997 at 22:20:47
] But Col. B is in Marianne's character (if that makes any sense!). Remember, he was a very passionate man in his youth (so much so that his parents had to force him into the army), and even though he appears very much the settled, sensible man now, there are hints of his passion still. He still enjoys sad music (esp. if Marianne's singing), he loves romantic and tragic poetry (as does she), and he tends to be a bit dramatic (i.e.-riding off for London w/o even packing!).
] I would think that Col. B contains enough restrained passion, even for Marianne.
I agree!!! And don't forget that he has the kind of passion that makes him stay around when the going gets tough, whereas Willoughby bails out at the first hint of tough times. Brandon was loyal and true to Eliza, even though he couldn't have her. He cared for her child, and fought a duel for the sake of that child (and probably for Marianne's sake too, although he might not admit it). The passion he has comes from deep within, it is not just a glossy surface detail.
We are also told at the end of the book that Willoughby did not pine away for Marianne, and in fact got over her rather quickly. Would Brandon have forgotten her as quickly?
I rather think he would have loved her from afar for the rest of his life if he saw no chance of succeeding with her.
So if Marianne, as a passionate creature, ended up with the man who is deep down more truly passionate, why should this be a tragedy?
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