A review by phantomgecko
Emma by Jane Austen

lighthearted slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

Obviously class (and wealth) is an important part of any Austen novel. But it just felt more odious in this one because of Harriet Smith.

In the beginning, Emma tells Harriet if she marries a common farmer, she could not associate with her anymore. In the end, Harriet marries a common farmer and Emma stops associating with her. This fact is kinda glossed over and rationalized with the discovery Harriet wasn't gentry anyway.

The intimacy between her and Emma must sink; their friendship must change into a calmer sort of goodwill; and, fortunately, what ought to be, and must be, seemed already beginning, and in the most gradual, natural manner.

Gross. And yeah, I know that's how it was back in Jane Austen's time. But it's still ridiculous. Emma had only the slightest of character growth. The recognition that people are just people, and the British caste system is bs and a rejection of that system would have really endeared her to me.

As it is, Emma is a snob in the beginning, middle, and end of the book. I did not like her, therefore I did not much enjoy the novel.

Unrealistic expectations or not, my least favorite Austen novel thus far.
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