High Society and Superior Graces

"Emma has been meaning to read more ever since she was twelve years old. I have seen a great many lists of her drawing up at various times of books that she meant to read regularly through -- and very good lists they were -- very well chosen, and very neatly arranged -- sometimes alphabetically, and sometimes by some other rule. The list she drew up when only fourteen -- I remember thinking it did her judgment so much credit, that I preserved it some time; and I dare say she may have made out a very good list now. But I have done with expecting any course of steady reading from Emma. She will never submit to any thing requiring industry and patience, and a subjection of the fancy to the understanding." (Chapter 5)

I have to say that it is nice to have some superior graces to that of an Austen heroine. I, as evidenced by this project, have a talent for reading through old classics and sticking to a schedule. I had always thought Emma Woodhouse was superior amongst women in classical literature, except, as we shall see, in compassion and empathy.

I wish to add a few notes in this post, so that Emma does not go unintroduced:

Emma was published in December 1815, and is the story of a high-society woman named of all things.... Emma! She is accomplished, but lacking in the seasoned wisdom of her brother-in-laws brother, Mr Knightley. She, like many young girls, is obsessed with love and match making. It is not that she tries to injure people, but she does manage to place people in scrapes, those often related to the heart. In style, the humour and style are like Pride and Prejudice. It is considered Jane Austen's comedy. Like all of Jane's novels, it seeks to point out something unique or cruel about Regency society. I believe that the message of this one is that what constitutes good society is not money, or talents, but friendship and respect. Money doesn't hurt though!

Happy Reading. I love this novel.

Plus Tard: I just realised that I have seen 14/25 Austen Adaptations. That is dedication! Plus, it is just fun.