Set in Regency England, this 1815 fiction follows Emma Woodhouse, a well-meaning but misguided young woman who fancies herself a matchmaker. Austen weaves a comedy of errors as Emma's romantic schemes backfire, leading her toward self-discovery and unexpected love.
Emma Woodhouse, handsome, clever, and rich, with a comfortable home and happy disposition, seemed to unite some of the best blessings of existence; and had lived nearly twenty-one years in the world with very little to distress or vex her. She was the youngest of the two daughters of a most affectionate, indulgent father; and had, in consequence of her sister’s marriage, been mistress of his house from a very early period. Her mother had died too long ago for her to have more than an indistinct remembrance of her caresses; and her place had been supplied by an excellent woman as governess, who had fallen little short of a mother in affection. Sixteen years had Miss Taylor been in Mr. Woodhouse’s family, less as a governess than a friend, very fond of both daughters, but particularly of Emma. Between _them_ it was more the intimacy of sisters. Even before Miss Taylor had ceased to hold th…Continue reading →
A brilliant English novelist of the early 19th century, she crafted witty social comedies that exposed the constraints facing women in Regency England. Her six novels, including Pride and Prejudice and Emma, revolutionized literature with their sharp psychological insight and sparkling dialogue, establishing her as one of history's most beloved storytellers. All works by Jane Austen →
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