Willoughby's Character Unveiled
In this pivotal chapter, Marianne's initial enchantment with Willoughby is shattered when she discovers his deceit and unworthiness.
Elinor receives a letter from Lucy Steele revealing Willoughby's true character. Lucy confesses to a previous secret engagement with Willoughby, which he ended when he became acquainted with Marianne. Lucy expresses her resentment toward Willoughby for breaking off their engagement and accuses him of heartlessly abandoning her.
Elinor is shocked by this disclosure and immediately informs Marianne. Marianne is devastated and struggles to come to terms with the reality that the man she idolized is capable of such cruelty and betrayal.
Willoughby's duplicitous nature becomes evident, and Marianne experiences a profound sense of disillusionment. She realizes that her intense emotional attachment to Willoughby was based on a false perception and an idealized image she had constructed.
Elinor supports Marianne during this emotional crisis, providing a rational and empathetic perspective to help her process the pain and navigate her shattered expectations.
As Marianne grapples with the aftermath of this revelation, her newfound understanding of Willoughby's deception marks a significant turning point in her personal journey. She begins to question her impulsive nature and reliance on superficial impressions, paving the way for her emotional growth and maturity throughout the rest of the novel.