When wealthy Mr. Dashwood dies in pre-Victorian England, he must leave the bulk of his estate to the son by his first marriage, which leaves his second wife and their three daughters Elinor, Marianne, and Margaret in dire straits financially. They are taken in by a kind cousin, but their lack of finances affects the marriageability of practical Elinor and romantic Marianne. When Elinor forms an attachment to the wealthy Edward Ferrars, his family disapproves and drives them apart and, although Mrs. Jennings tries to match the worthy (and rich) Colonel Brandon to her, Marianne finds the dashing and fiery John Willoughby more to her liking. Both relationships are sorely tried.