Emma · Chapter
Chapter XXIII explained
Emma and Harriet visit the Martins, causing Harriet pain.
What happens
Emma and Harriet visit the Martins, causing Harriet pain. Emma then encounters Mr. and Mrs. Weston, who announce Frank Churchill's imminent arrival. Frank Churchill visits Hartfield and decides to call on Jane Fairfax.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and Mobility
Emma reflects on the Martins' lower rank and the necessity of separating Harriet from them, despite their deserving nature.
Matchmaking and Self-Deception
Emma observes Mr. Weston's hopeful glances and her father's blindness to potential matches, while she herself orchestrates social interactions.
Gossip and Community Life
The community's awareness of Jane Fairfax's reduced circumstances and the expectation that Frank Churchill should call on her promptly.
Characters to notice
- Emma Woodhouse
Accompanies Harriet to the Martins, feels the pain of the separation, and later converses with Mr. and Mrs. Weston and Frank Churchill.
- Harriet Smith
Visits the Martins and is emotionally affected by the encounter, recalling past happiness.
- Mr. Weston
Meets Emma on the road, announces Frank Churchill's arrival, and later accompanies his son to Hartfield.
- Mrs. Weston
Present with Mr. Weston when they meet Emma; described as a pretty young woman by Frank Churchill.
- Frank Churchill
Visits Hartfield, compliments Mrs. Weston, and expresses intention to call on Jane Fairfax.
- Mr. Woodhouse
Oblivious to matchmaking, offers to send a servant to guide Frank Churchill to the Bates' house.
Key passages
“I had not expected more than a very tolerably well-looking woman of a certain age; I did not know that I was to find a pretty young woman in Mrs. Weston.”
Frank Churchill admits he was surprised to find Mrs. Weston so young and attractive.
Frank's compliment to Mrs. Weston, observed by Emma.
“Happily he was not farther from approving matrimony than from foreseeing it.”
Fortunately, Mr. Woodhouse neither anticipates nor approves of marriages.
Emma's relief that her father is oblivious to potential matches.
“If you do not call early it will be a slight.”
Mr. Weston warns Frank that delaying his visit to Jane Fairfax would be seen as disrespectful.
Social pressure to acknowledge Jane Fairfax despite her reduced circumstances.