Emma, Volume 2, Chapter 12 summary
Volume 2, Chapter 12 of 55 · 9 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 12, Frank Churchill receives an urgent summons to Enscombe, ending the plans for a ball and prompting an awkward farewell at Hartfield. Emma interprets his unfinished remarks as signs of love and takes her own disappointment as evidence that she feels some affection for him.
What happens
- Frank receives permission to extend his stay, while Emma resents Mr. Knightley’s lack of interest in the ball.
- Mr. Churchill summons Frank home because Mrs. Churchill is ill, and the ball is called off.
- At Hartfield, Frank regrets leaving, recalls his visit to the Bates household, and struggles to finish several personal remarks.
- Mr. Weston arrives, and Frank leaves after promising to follow Highbury news through Mrs. Weston’s letters.
- Emma thinks her sadness means she is somewhat in love, while Mr. Knightley kindly acknowledges her disappointment.
- Jane Fairfax appears composed when Emma sees her, though her aunt reports a severe headache.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Emma gives her sadness a romantic explanation, but her limited timescale makes the claim less certain than it first sounds.
Quick check
Why must Frank leave before the ball?
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