The Norton Library edition of Sense and Sensibility features the complete text of the second edition (1813). A lively introduction by Stephanie Insley Hershinow highlights the novel’s playful critique of the sentimental tradition and sharp attention, for which Austen would become renowned, to the rigid and often-conflicting expectations placed on the behavior and inner lives of “eligible” young women.

The Norton Library is a growing collection of high-quality texts and translations—influential works of literature and philosophy—introduced and edited by leading scholars. Norton Library editions prepare readers for their first encounter with the works that they’ll re-read over a lifetime.



Inviting introductions highlight the work’s significance and influence, providing the historical and literary context students need to dive in with confidence.
Endnotes and an easy-to-read design deliver an uninterrupted reading experience, encouraging students to read the text first and refer to endnotes for more information as needed.
An affordable price (most editions are $10 or less) encourages students to buy the book and to come to class with the assigned edition.