Acquaintance Quote by Jane Austen
“The family of Dashwood had long been settled in Sussex. Their estate was large, and their residence was at Norland Park, in the centre of their property, where, for many generations, they had lived in so respectable a manner as to engage the general good opinion of their surrounding acquaintance. The late owner of this estate was a single man, who lived to a very advanced age, and who for many years of his life, had a constant companion and housekeeper in his sister.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Sense and Sensibility, 1811
The Dashwood family’s long‑standing, respectable reputation in Sussex is described, highlighting their estate, social standing, and the late owner’s solitary life with his sister as housekeeper.
In simple terms: Describes a respectable family’s estate and social reputation.
Key Takeaway
Respect and reputation shape social identity.
Themes
family legacy
social standing
inheritance
solitude
gender roles
Mood
reflective
nostalgic
Type
narrative
historical
When to use this quote
- estate management
- historical research
- genealogy
- social etiquette
Key Concepts
social hierarchy
family dynamics
class consciousness
Questions to Reflect On
- What responsibilities come with inherited status?
- How does solitude affect personal decisions?
A Different Perspective
May idealize Victorian norms.
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