"Emma" Revisited: Book Discussion

In our revisiting of Jane Austen's 6 main novels, we next dive into "Emma". Jane Austen newcomers and veteran Janeites welcome! We will start with some ice breakers as usual and then cover deeper discussion in a round table style.

Here are some questions to inspire our discussion.

1. Jane Austen said she created a heroine in Emma “whom nobody but myself will much like.” Agree? How does Emma grow and evolve?

2. The significant conflict between Knightley and Emma over Robert Martin and Elton: who “wins” this argument?

3. The word “blunder” is used many times in the novel and highlighted very particularly in the game of alphabet squares. How do blunders drive this story forward? Who, if anyone, is without blunder in this story?

4. In what ways, if any, are Frank Churchill and Jane Fairfax’s secret engagement foreshadowed?

5. Was Harriet Smith a good friend for Emma? Vice Versa?

6. Was Jane Fairfax wrong in becoming and remaining committed to Frank Churchill?

7. Consider Frank’s final letter to Mrs. Weston. Is he forgivable?

8. How does the character of Miss Bates reveal the character of others and the importance/role of class and money in Highbury Society?

9. Mrs. Elton is immediately disliked and we see her largely from Emma's POV. Is there anything redeemable in her character? What makes her a good match for Mr. Elton?