Henry Dashwood is a fictional character from Jane Austen's novel, "Sense and Sensibility." He is the father of the Dashwood sisters, Elinor and Marianne, and his death sets the stage for the story's exploration of family, love, and financial struggles. After his passing, Henry leaves his estate to his son from a previous marriage, which significantly impacts the financial situation of his daughters. His character represents the themes of duty and familial responsibility, as he wishes to provide for his daughters but is constrained by societal norms and inheritance laws.