Chronological Order: Sense and Sensibility was actually Jane Austen's first published novel, released in 1811. Pride and Prejudice, on the other hand, was her second published novel and came out in 1813. By starting with Sense and Sensibility, you can follow the chronological development of Austen's writing and observe the progression of her literary style.
Introduction to Austen's Style: Sense and Sensibility offers a gentler introduction to Austen's trademark wit, social commentary, and character development. It might be easier for first-time readers to grasp Austen's writing style and themes before tackling the denser and more intricate plots of her later works.
Character Complexity: While both Sense and Sensibility and Pride and Prejudice feature well-developed characters, Sense and Sensibility has a smaller cast, which allows for more in-depth exploration of each character's motivations and emotions. This can make the characters feel more relatable and enable readers to gain a stronger connection to the story.
Narrative Simplicity: The plot of Sense and Sensibility is relatively straightforward compared to Pride and Prejudice. It primarily focuses on the romantic entanglements of the Dashwood sisters and the social norms and expectations of their society. This simplicity can make it a more accessible starting point for readers who are new to Austen.
Having said that, there's no harm in reading Pride and Prejudice first. Austen's novels stand on their own, and you can enjoy them in any order you prefer. The most important thing is to immerse yourself in the world she has created and savor her insightful observations about life and relationships.