Anyway, hope you ladies have enjoyed reading Emma. I look forward to discussing it with you. Feel free to answer any questions by simply posting a comment, just make sure to number your discussion comments so we know what question you are referring to.
Other than that, I'll see you all on Saturday the 25th @ 8:30 pm my time. I wish I could let you all know specifically what time that is for you, but if you go here, you can figure it out. I am UTC/GMT time zone. See you soon!
Discussing Emma:
1. How do matters of class affect the interaction of these characters, and would you describe class as being rigid or flexible as it is depicted by Jane Austen? To what extent can class be said to be of central importance to the development of the novel, since it is one of the most important considerations in marriage? Does class seem to be treated differently by those in Highbury than it does by outsiders, for example Frank Churchill and Mrs. Elton? Do you think it is significant that no woman in Highbury is of Emma's age and rank?
2. Do you think Mr. Knightley's feelings change as the novel progresses? Why or why not?
3. While matchmaking is the central device in Emma, both for the plot and as a backdrop to develop characters, not all of the matches made in the novel are good. Compare the matches made between Mr. Weston and Miss Taylor, Emma and Mr. Knightley, Harriet and Mr. Martin, Jane Fairfax and Frank Churchill, and Mr. Elton and Mrs. Elton. Which are good matches and which are bad? What character traits in the couples make them suited or unsuited for each other? Why are the mismatches so important to the story?
4. Does Emma act as a good friend to Harriet Smith? Does Harriet ultimately benefit from Emma's friendship or her attempts to help her?
5.In the final analysis, is Emma a sympathetic character? Does she seem to have good intentions only marred by a slight desire to interfere with other people's lives, or is she thoughtless and unconcerned with the effects she has on others? In your estimation, is Emma ultimately moral or immoral? What specific incidents in the novel lead you to that conclusion?
*I collected these questions from a few book club suggestion sites. If you all want to discuss something else, please add it! Inquiring minds want to know!*
1 comment:
i think that works out to 3:30pm Central and 2:30 Mountain time.
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