Emma: A Novel

Emma is one of my favorite characters in literature. She is a spoiled brat, and a snob, with far too high an opinion of her own intelligence, but she is also vivacious and genuinely good-hearted. As the book progresses she sees her flaws and works to correct them. The only reason why I rate this below Pride and Prejudice on the "Jane Austen" scale is that Emma's love interest is not nearly as interesting as she is; he is in the "too perfect" camp instead.

If only more moderns were able to reflect inwardly as Jane Austen's characters are so brilliantly written to do. It makes one recall the need for humbly looking at ones own shortcomings and real faults. But it's all done with a great human story and terrific English wit. Her books bring thoughts of green trees, lovely settings, deep human relationships, and people struggling to conquer inner ugliness with nobility whether farmer or high born. While immensely entertaining her books are so instructive.

I am a HUGE Jane Austen fan, but not an Emma fan... The story itself is good, but i just can't get past Emma herself. She is hands down my least favorite Jane Austen "heroine." Something about her just irks me to the core.