past simple or continuous

[Marionetta]

Hello,

I would like to ask for advice in this case:

She was feeling sad because she had never done anything like that before.

She felt sad because she had never done anything like that before.

Which is correct? What is the difference in meaning?

Thank you.

[Mister Micawber]

Both are fine. The progressive emphasizes the durational quality of the verb, and as here, adds an empathetic element on the speaker's part, an increased emotional involvement.
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Native English teacher at Mister Micawber's