Emma, Volume 2, Chapter 3 summary
Volume 2, Chapter 3 of 55 · 16 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 3, Emma learns that Mr. Elton is engaged to Miss Hawkins, but Harriet arrives distressed by meeting Elizabeth Martin and her brother rather than by this news. Emma briefly questions her judgment of the Martins, then uses the engagement announcement to turn Harriet’s attention away from them.
What happens
- Mr. Knightley praises Emma’s treatment of Jane Fairfax, but Emma admits that Jane’s reserve frustrates her.
- Miss Bates and Jane arrive to thank the Woodhouses for pork and announce Mr. Elton’s engagement to Miss Hawkins.
- Emma welcomes the engagement news but worries about how Harriet hears it.
- Harriet arrives and describes an upsetting encounter with Elizabeth Martin and her brother while sheltering at Ford’s.
- Emma feels the force of the Martins’ kindness, then dismisses her doubts about opposing the connection.
- Emma tells Harriet about the engagement to distract her, and Harriet’s attention returns to Mr. Elton.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Mr. Knightley distinguishes reasonable privacy from shyness. His warning challenges Emma’s determination to draw information from Jane.
Quick check
Why does Elizabeth Martin’s brother follow Harriet out of Ford’s?
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