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Emma, Volume 3, Chapter 7 summary

Volume 3, Chapter 7 of 55 · 13 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 7, Emma flirts with Frank Churchill during the Box Hill outing and makes a joke that hurts Miss Bates in front of the company. Mr. Knightley privately condemns her cruelty toward a poor, generous woman, and Emma accepts the truth of his criticism, crying during the journey home.

What happens

  1. The party reaches Box Hill punctually, but separate groups and dull conversation prevent general enjoyment.
  2. Frank Churchill becomes lively, flatters Emma, and proposes a game requiring everyone to offer something entertaining.
  3. Emma mocks Miss Bates for talking too much, and Miss Bates understands the insult and feels hurt.
  4. After the Eltons leave, Frank criticizes hasty attachments, Jane challenges him, and Emma agrees to choose him a wife.
  5. Before Emma leaves, Mr. Knightley rebukes her for humiliating Miss Bates and stresses her duty to show compassion.
  6. Emma cannot express her agreement before Knightley leaves and cries almost throughout the silent drive home.

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In this chapter

EmmaMr. KnightleyFrank ChurchillJane FairfaxMiss BatesTheme: Compassion and repair

What to notice

Knightley makes Miss Bates’s reduced circumstances a reason for kindness rather than ridicule. His rebuke forces Emma to recognize the harm she causes.

Quick check

Why does Knightley consider Emma’s treatment of Miss Bates especially wrong?

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