Who Mr Knightley is
Mr Knightley is a landowner of about thirty-seven who has known Emma Woodhouse since she was a child. He farms the estate of Donwell Abbey and looks after his tenants and neighbours. Practical and fair, he judges people more carefully than Emma often does.
Mr Knightley and the others in the story
Mr Knightley is the brother of Isabella's husband, which connects him to Emma's family as well as her daily life. His conversations with Emma mix teasing with criticism, and beneath their disagreements lies mutual respect.
When Emma persuades Harriet Smith to refuse Robert Martin, Mr Knightley challenges her judgement. He regards Robert as a better man than Emma understands and sees the proposal as a good match for Harriet.
What Mr Knightley wants
Mr Knightley wants Emma to recognise her mistakes because he believes she can do better. His criticism grows sharper when her wit becomes unkind, rather than merely mistaken.
His own conduct gives weight to the standards he asks Emma to meet. At a ball, he dances with Harriet after she is snubbed, showing kindness through a small, practical action.
A best-known line
“Vanity working on a weak head, produces every sort of mischief.”
Questions
Who is Mr Knightley in Emma?
Mr Knightley is an old Woodhouse family friend and the landowner of Donwell Abbey.
Why does Mr Knightley criticise Emma?
He challenges her because he admires her and believes she is capable of better judgement and greater kindness.
How is Mr Knightley related to Emma?
He is the brother of the man married to Emma's elder sister, Isabella. He has also known Emma since childhood.