The Theme Of Marriage In Emma By Jane Austen

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Emma by Jane Austen is a book which focuses on marriage and courtship. Emma Woodhouse the narrator in the novel is described as “handsome, clever, and rich, with a comfortable home and happy disposition” (J. Austen 1815, page 4). She lives in Highbury with her father, Mr Woodhouse who happens to be a widow. The dominant theme which is persistently throughout the novel is Marriage. The novel focuses on who will marry whom and for what reason? Activities in the novel are centered on Emma’s attempt to match make. Marriage seemed to be really important in the 1800’s. Emma believes marriage is a way of getting what you are in need of. “Fortune I do not want; employment I do not want; consequence I do not want” (J. Austen 1815, page 104), as Emma is not in need of anything and so, sees marriage as being a mistress to your partner. Mr Woodhouse views marriage as “the origin of change, was always disagreeable” (J. Austen 1815, page 6). He saw marriage as a cause of change. In the novel, Jane Austen portrayed that marriage was not centred on love, but wealth so that they can cater for their wants and needs; social status that is, women tend to marry men in the upper class; and family background in order to protect their reputation. The novel began with the wedding of Mr Weston and Miss Taylor, Emma’s friend which was significantly used to introduce the theme of marriage in the novel. Emma believes she is the reason behind Mr Weston and Miss Taylor’s marriage and tries to

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