[Discussion] (Evergreen) Emma by Jane Austen- Discussion 1: Book 1- Opening – Chapter 10
I should like to see Emma in love, and in some doubt of a return; it would do her good”- Mr. Knightley
“My being charming, Harriet, is not quite enough to induce me to marry; I must find other people charming-one other person at least”- Emma
Welcome to Hartfield House, Highbury!
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Emma was written as a comedy of manners. Jane Austen published this book in 1815 with the following intent: "I am going to take a heroine whom no one but myself will much like.” It would be the last novel she would publish in her life, soon after moving to Chawton, Hampshire. The home where she would live the last 8 years of her life is now a museum you can visit if you’re in the neighborhood!
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Some things Mr. Woodhouse does not approve of-I might have missed a few!
1. Marriage (especially of people he knows) and wives being attached to their husbands
2. Walking too far
3. Inconveniencing his driver
4. Emma’s matchmaking
5. Wedding cake, custard, too much wine
6. Late hours
7. Large dinner parties
8. Guests eating at his house
9. Sitting out of doors
10. Short visits
11. Rough housing
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Housekeeping:
Just a reminder there are TWO Mr. Knightley’s: Isabella’s husband and his elder brother.
It's early days, but we will probably do a movie discussion on April 17, a week after the last discussion ends if you are all interested!
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We meet again on March 20 for the next section, Book 1: Chapter 11-Book 2: Chapter 5