The story in one page
Emma Woodhouse lives at Hartfield with her doting, hypochondriac father. Having successfully encouraged her governess's marriage, she decides to manage the romantic life of a local girl, Harriet Smith. Emma ignores actual signs of affection between others, creating social chaos through her misguided confidence. Her attempts to steer Harriet toward a local vicar result in rejection and hurt feelings. As she navigates misunderstandings involving newcomers and old friends, she finally recognizes the true nature of her own attachments. The story concludes with her marriage to the sensible Mr. Knightley, resolving the domestic tensions that had kept her restless.
Who's who
- Emma Woodhouse
A self-assured young woman who orchestrates local social lives.
- Mr. Knightley
A level-headed landowner who frequently critiques Emma's interference.
- Harriet Smith
A naive protégé whose romantic prospects are manipulated by Emma.
- Mr. Woodhouse
An aging father obsessed with the dangers of drafts and travel.
What it's really about
- Social Perception
- Mistaking one's own desires for the world's reality.
- Interventionism
- The fallout of controlling other people's personal lives.
Why it's memorable
- A man worrying that his dinner guests might catch a sore throat.
- A failed matchmaker frantically practicing the piano to impress visitors.
The ending, explained
Spoilers — show the ending
A series of poultry thefts in the village shifts the father's focus toward his own security, allowing the wedding to proceed under the protection of the bridegroom. The union is considered rather plain by the local gossip, but it satisfies everyone involved.
For your book club
- Why does a person who is clever constantly misjudge human behavior?
- The high cost of playing with other people's romantic futures.