Kind, willing and knowledgeable, these are all the characteristics of Elinor Dashwood. Authors often use character characteristics to describe them as imperative elements of the plot. In Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen, Elinor is presented as an important character through her compassion for others and her willingness to help her family in difficult situations. Readers first see Elinor's importance in the novel through her compassion towards Colonel Brandon, John Willoughby, and Edward. Ferrars. When Colonel Brandon entered her life, she treated him with very little compassion, but over time, "Elinor's compassion for him increased" (47). His compassion radiates through her determination to always engage in conversation with him: “and to speak to Elinor, who often derived more satisfaction from conversing with him than from any other daily occurrence” (145). Throughout the novel, readers see that Elinor does not love Willoughby, but after his breakup, Marianne's dislike turns to horror. However, when Willoughby comes to Cleveland to apologize and explain, "Elinor's heart, which had undergone many changes during this extraordinary conversation, had softened again" (292). Elinor must face her own pain and rejection. When they return from Cleveland, Edward arrives and asks for forgiveness. Elinor extends compassion to Edward by accepting his marriage proposal and then marrying him: “The first month after [Edward and Elinor's] marriage” (336). Through his compassion towards these three characters, readers see the importance of his presence in the novel. Next, readers see how Elinor willingly helps her sister through the adversities in her life. “Elinor was to be the comforter of others in her own distresses, no less than in theirs; and all the comfort that could be afforded by the assurance of his own calm of mind” (228). So, Elinor generously puts aside her emotions to comfort Marianne after Willoughby rejects her and breaks her heart: “What! – by accompanying me in all my misery, is that your heart? (229). Marianne realizes that Elinor knew about Edward's engagement to Lucy, but she chose to put it behind her in order to comfort her. This pain has weighed on Elinor's heart for four months, making it even more difficult for Marianne to understand. “Four months!… cried Marianne again… so calm!… so joyful!… how were you supported? (229). Elinor's response to this question makes it clear why she chose to be selfless and hide her pain: "and I owed it to my family and friends not to create in them a concern for me.” (229).