Emma
by Jane Austen
Open Library readers: 3.97 / 5 from 65 ratings. Separate from ratings here.Catalogue checked 2026-10-02.
Emma, by Jane Austen, is a novel about youthful hubris and the perils of misconstrued romance. The novel was first published in December 1815. As in her other novels, Austen explores the concerns and difficulties of genteel women living in Georgian-Regency England; she also creates a lively comedy of manners among her characters. Before she began the novel, Austen wrote, "I am going to take a heroine whom no one but myself will much like." In the very first sentence she introduces the title character as "Emma Woodhouse, handsome, clever, and rich." Emma, however, is also rather spoiled, headstrong, and self-satisfied; she greatly overestimates her own matchmaking abilities; she is blind to the dangers of meddling in other people's lives; and her imagination and perceptions often lead her astray.
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- Who wrote Emma?
Emma is by Jane Austen. The catalogue records its first publication in 1815. A later edition may have a different publication date on its copyright page.
- How long is Emma?
The catalogue records 457 pages for a representative edition. Pagination varies with the publisher, format, type size and translation, so check the edition you intend to read.
- How do I choose an edition of Emma?
