Emma has just found herself a new undertaking. While on a visit to her neighbors’ – a kindness she spared in spite of their lower social status – she has met a younger woman, Harriet Smith, naive to the ways of the world and whom she feels she can mold into possibility. Her first hurdle is convincing poor Harriet that she is not in love with the crude Mr. Martin, but should rather save herself for other prospects more suitable. As time passes, however, Emma gradually learns that in spite of her good intentions, she in fact can not improve on what human nature ordains.
Every so often, I like to revert to the classics, searching out what folks have loved in the past. I have to admit that I am fairly stunned that this is in that category (and yet it is, according to almost any listing you may search). While it is somewhat entertaining, it is, at best, a soap-opera-ish, romance novel. There are mind-numbing details about the histories of each character’s social status, their day-to-day routines of meetings and inane conversations, and the gossip that stirs around each of them that is typical for a tiny, intimate town.
We do see growth of Emma’s character. She begins with little insight as to her own naivety, not seeing her own willfulness, her own egocentrism as being problematic. She tries to interfere in everyone’s world. Gradually, however, she learns that this interference can backfire, and painfully so. She not only acknowledges her errors, but she changes her ways: she holds her tongue even when she might not have before, steps back, and listens more. For this, she is ultimately rewarded.
I suppose there is a lesson here for us all, no?
I would love to hear what others think of this novel as it is very likely some of you have read it. Thoughts???
kindread spirits 