Essay-style Questions: Emma
1.What follows is a full introduction and a possible essay plan, in response to the question:
'Education is the central subject in Emma'. Discuss
| Introduction
Echoes the question and addresses it directly Highlights the simple structure which will give the essay shape |
Education is a key theme which links many of the characters in Emma. The novel centres upon the development of Emma Woodhouse as she learns from her experiences. Harriet Smith, Emma's schoolgirl friend, is also engaged in the learning process. Jane Fairfax, meanwhile, is preparing to work as a governess - which allows Jane Austen to comment briefly on women's education in general. In my answer, I shall address each of these characters in turn. |
| Discusses Emma's formal and informal education in the novel |
At the start of the novel Emma has just lost her governess and friend, Jane Taylor, who has married Mr Weston. We learn from Mr Knightley that Mrs Weston was never very strict in teaching Emma - who is therefore apt to do what she likes. Emma begins books and drawings but doesn't finish them, and makes lists of improving reading but doesn't put these into practice. It is clear that Emma's education is incomplete. The structure of the novel highlights events where Emma judgement is Throughout, it is Mr Knightley, who is the only person willing to criticise, |
| Discusses Harriet Smith and education |
Harriet Smith also illustrates the importance of education in Emma. Like Emma and Jane, she lacks parental guidance. Her character is soft and easily moulded, and she looks up to Emma for advice. As Mr Knightley spots, this is a dangerous education, because Emma encourages Harriet to learn the hobbies of a gentlewoman (riddles, sketching, reading) rather than the domestic skills she needs. Emma is a bad teacher because she cares more for Harriet's admiration than Harriet's realistic goals. Miss Goddard's boarding-school, where Harriet is a pupil, gives Austen a chance to comment on the difficulties for girls in `scrambling themselves into a little education'. Many girls' schools simply provide a way for parents to offload responsibility for their daughters. |
| Discusses Jane Fairfax and education |
Jane Fairfax is preparing unhappily to become a governess. This is a poorly paid job, with a relatively low status, and Jane bitterly compares it to the slave trade, which sells 'human flesh'. This provides another perspective on the problems of the early 19th century educational system. Jane is well-educated, but, like the other young people, has to grow and change before the novel's end. She confesses to Emma that she was wrong to agree to a secret engagement with Frank Churchill - this secrecy forced her to be closed and reserved towards the friends who could have helped her, and has even made her ill. |
| Conclusion
Goes back to the initial question and summarises the arguments you have Ideally, the conclusion should also add a little extra flourish - |
Education is at the heart of Emma. It is an idea that is explored from various angles. The educational system, particularly for women, is criticised. Emma's personal development through learning from experience provides the novel's structure. Indeed, all of the characters learn things about others during the course of the novel that they did not previously know. But most importantly the central figures learn to know themselves better - self-criticism is the key to sound judgement. |