Emma by Jane Austen is a novel written in the early 19th century, during the Regency era. The story follows Emma Woodhouse, a spirited and privileged young woman who takes pleasure in matchmaking among her friends, especially after her beloved governess, Miss Taylor, marries Mr. Weston. This marriage brings Emma both happiness and a sense of loneliness, motivating her to further involve herself in the romantic lives of those around her, including her friend Harriet Smith, who occupies a lower social position.
As the story begins, readers are introduced to Emma¡¯s comfortable but somewhat sheltered life at Hartfield. The opening chapters explore her reflections on her situation, her father Mr. Woodhouse¡¯s cautious and doting nature, and her close bond with Miss Taylor, whose recent marriage leaves a poignant gap in Emma¡¯s life. This introduction contrasts Emma¡¯s confidence and eagerness to influence others¡¯ lives with the potential challenges of her well-meaning schemes?particularly as she encourages Harriet to consider a match with the young farmer, Robert Martin.
Through themes of social class, friendship, and self-discovery, Emma delves into the complexities that arise as Emma¡¯s interventions do not always produce the outcomes she expects, leading her to a journey of self-awareness and maturity.
VOLUME I.
CHAPTER I.
CHAPTER II.
CHAPTER III.
CHAPTER IV.
CHAPTER V.
CHAPTER VI.
CHAPTER VII.
CHAPTER VIII.
CHAPTER IX.
CHAPTER X.
CHAPTER XI.
CHAPTER XII.
CHAPTER XIII.
CHAPTER XIV.
CHAPTER XV.
CHAPTER XVI.
CHAPTER XVII.
CHAPTER XVIII.
VOLUME II.
CHAPTER I.
CHAPTER II.
CHAPTER III.
CHAPTER IV.
CHAPTER V.
CHAPTER VI.
CHAPTER VII.
CHAPTER VIII.
CHAPTER IX.
CHAPTER X.
CHAPTER XI.
CHAPTER XII.
CHAPTER XIII.
CHAPTER XIV.
CHAPTER XV.
CHAPTER XVI.
CHAPTER XVII.
CHAPTER XVIII.
VOLUME III.
CHAPTER I.
CHAPTER II.
CHAPTER III.
CHAPTER IV.
CHAPTER V.
CHAPTER VI.
CHAPTER VII.
CHAPTER VIII.
CHAPTER IX.
CHAPTER X.
CHAPTER XI.
CHAPTER XII.
CHAPTER XIII.
CHAPTER XIV.
CHAPTER XV.
CHAPTER XVI.
CHAPTER XVII.
CHAPTER XVIII.
CHAPTER XIX.