The BEST episodes of Sense and Sensibility (1981)

Every episode of Sense and Sensibility (1981) ever, ranked from best to worst by thousands of votes from fans of the show. The best episodes of Sense and Sensibility (1981)!

Sense and Sensibility is a 1981 BBC television adaptation of Jane Austen's novel. The seven-part series was dramatized by Alexander Baron, and directed by Rodney Bennett. Following the plot of the novel, it tells "a story of two sisters attempting to find happiness in the tightly structured society of 18th century England. Elinor, disciplined, restrained and very conscious of the manners of the day, represents sense. Outspoken, impetuous, emotional Marianne represents sensibility. Attracted to a man already promised to another, Elinor suffers silently to keep scandal away from her family. Marianne enjoys a flirtation with a handsome scoundrel that could lead to her downfall. Through their experiences with men and their relationship with each other, they learn that neither sense nor sensibility is enough, but that one must strive for a balance of the two."

Last Updated: 6/16/2025Network: BBCStatus: Ended
star
9.06
31 votes

#1 - Part 2

Season 1 - Episode 2 - Aired 2/8/1981

Marianne cannot understand Elinor's philosophical acceptance of their new lives at Barton Cottage as her own heart is breaking for their beloved house at Norwood.

Directors: Rodney Bennett
Watch Now:Amazon
star
8.00
29 votes

#2 - Part 7

Season 1 - Episode 7 - Aired 3/15/1981

Marianne is at last out of danger. Elinor has received a visit from the desperately penitent Willoughby.

Directors: Rodney Bennett
Watch Now:Amazon
star
7.85
34 votes

#3 - Part 1

Season 1 - Episode 1 - Aired 2/1/1981

Although the half-brother of Elinor, Marianne, and the younger Margaret promised to care for his half-sisters, his wife convinces him he bears no financial obligation. Mr. And Mrs. John Dashwood take over the residence in Norland, leaving Mrs. Henry Dashwood and her daughters to feel like guests in their own home.

Directors: Rodney Bennett
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
star
7.00
29 votes

#4 - Part 4

Season 1 - Episode 4 - Aired 2/22/1981

Elinor has promised to keep the secret of Edward Ferrar's engagement to Lucy Steel. She manages to conceal her unhappiness even from Marianne, who is overjoyed to visit London.

Directors: Rodney Bennett
Watch Now:Amazon
star
7.00
29 votes

#5 - Part 5

Season 1 - Episode 5 - Aired 3/1/1981

Marianne's heart is doubly broken by a yet more callous rejection by Willoughby. Elinor is to meet Edward's mother.

Directors: Rodney Bennett
Watch Now:Amazon
star
7.00
29 votes

#6 - Part 6

Season 1 - Episode 6 - Aired 3/8/1981

The sisters are to end their unhappy stay in London. Elinor is now as desolate as Marianne, as the secret of Edward's engagement is out at last and he intends to stand by it.

Directors: Rodney Bennett
Watch Now:Amazon
star
6.13
30 votes

#7 - Part 3

Season 1 - Episode 3 - Aired 2/15/1981

Just as it seems that Willoughby and Marianne must be about to announce their engagement, he departs for London, leaving her bewildered and desolate.

Directors: Rodney Bennett
Watch Now:Amazon