Emma (1816) was the last of Austen's mature novels published in her lifetime. This shows in its artful structure and use of irony. Offers a new kind of realism compared with popular fantasy romances - the social situations are familiar and believable. Can be viewed as a detective novel. The plot is like the riddles Harriet Smith collects - the answer is courtship, but both the reader and the characters have to figure out who will marry whom. Can also be seen as a novel about education and personal growth. Over the course of one year, through certain key scenes, Emma learns from her mistakes in judging others and herself. Emma A leader Spoilt and bossy Pretty and clever Vain Gives to the poor Lets her imagination run away with her Learns from her mistakes Snobbish Kind and patient with father and nephews Mr. Knightley Frank, honest and open Rather serious and unflattering Kind. Judges people wisely and accurately Behaves like an older man - rarely dances, likes working alone at home Frank Churchill Warm, sociable and fun Dishonest in concealing his engagement Genuinely sorry for the hurt he causes A flirt, who plays potentially hurtful games. Weak Jane Fairfax Talented musician, well-educated and polite Painfully reserved and unwilling to open up to people. Conceals her engagement Harriet Smith Sweet, simple and tenderhearted. Silly and easily-led Forgives easily, and can be influenced in a positive way Falls in love at the drop of hat Robert Martin Responsible and successful Ugly Manly, sincere and constant in love Comes from a fairly low social rank (a negative quality in the Highbury world) Mr Elton Popular, attractive and sociable Sentimental, proud, and after money Areas of Study Reason versus Imagination Social Class and Status Riddles and Games Letters and Language Openness versus Concealment The Position of Women Sample Questions How does Frank Churchill's arrival change the social world of Highbury? 'Emma demonstrates that there is always more than one way of reading people and what they say.' Comment on the importance of reading and misreading in the novel.