What is the name of the character who seduces Marianne Dashwood in 'Sense and Sensibility'?

John Willoughby is the character who romantically ensnares Marianne Dashwood in Sense and Sensibility. He first appears when he rescues Marianne after she falls and sprains her ankle during a rainstorm. Their shared enthusiasm for music, poetry and art quickly encourages Marianne to believe that their attachment will lead to marriage.

Willoughby never formally becomes engaged to Marianne, but his conduct makes the relationship appear serious to everyone around them. He abruptly leaves for London, then treats Marianne coldly when they meet again at a ball. He tells her that his affections are engaged elsewhere and announces his engagement to the wealthy Miss Grey, whose fortune is £50,000.

Colonel Brandon later reveals Willoughby’s darker history: he seduced and abandoned Brandon’s ward, Eliza Williams, leaving her pregnant. After Willoughby’s aunt discovers the scandal, she disinherits him, prompting him to seek a wealthy marriage. Willoughby eventually admits that he genuinely loved Marianne, but his selfish choices cost him her affection. Marianne ultimately marries the steadier and honourable Colonel Brandon.