Emma characters

Appears from the start

A wealthy, clever young woman who lives at Hartfield with her father. Secure in her position and with no need to marry, she enjoys managing the social lives of others and believes she arranged her former governess's successful match.

Appears from the start

Emma's elderly father, affectionate, anxious, and devoted to familiar routines. He worries about health, travel, rich food, and any marriage that removes a companion from his immediate circle.

Also known as Miss Taylor

Appears from the start

Emma's former governess and closest maternal friend, newly married to Mr Weston. Gentle and sensible, she remains part of Emma's daily life despite leaving Hartfield.

Appears from the start

A prosperous landowner from nearby Donwell Abbey and an old family friend. Direct, perceptive, and willing to challenge Emma, he doubts her claim that she engineered the Westons' marriage.

First appears in chapter 2

Mrs Weston's cheerful husband and the father of Frank Churchill from an earlier marriage. Sociable and optimistic, he hopes his son will soon visit Highbury.

First appears in chapter 3

A pretty, good-tempered seventeen-year-old of uncertain parentage who boards at Mrs Goddard's school. She is flattered by Emma's attention and eager to become her friend.

First appears in chapter 3

The young vicar of Highbury, polished and attentive. He is a regular and welcome member of the Woodhouses' social circle.

First appears in chapter 4

A respectable young tenant farmer on Mr Knightley's estate. Harriet knows him through his sisters and speaks warmly of his capable, good-natured character.

First appears in chapter 3

A kind but incessantly talkative unmarried woman of reduced means. She lives with her elderly mother, is grateful for every small kindness, and speaks proudly of her accomplished niece Jane Fairfax.

First appears in chapter 2

Mr Weston's son, raised by his wealthy Churchill relatives and long expected in Highbury. His repeated failure to visit is attributed to the demands of the aunt on whom his prospects depend.

First appears in chapter 20

Miss Bates's elegant and highly accomplished niece, orphaned and brought up with the Campbell family. She returns to Highbury before she must seek work as a governess, and Emma feels both curiosity and rivalry toward her.

Also known as Augusta Hawkins

First appears in chapter 32

Mr Elton's new wife, formerly Augusta Hawkins of Bath. Rich, self-important, and eager to establish her social consequence, she assumes an immediate familiarity with Highbury society.