So, I started reading Emma about a week ago. I've read well over 300 pages so far. I can't believe I haven't read it sooner!I had to make a character list at first to keep everyone straight, but once I wrapped my head around all the people, I really quite enjoyed it. I would love to travel back to that time, when you argue about whether or not you should be leaving the party because it's snowing. Or where people rejoice over receiving letters and share them with the whole town. Although, I'd probably get frustrated with how no one really said what they were thinking, or took forever to make a point. Much in the fashion of Emma herself, I believe I would be quite often thinking to myself, "Don't give another half second to the subject!"
I'm also amazed by the fact that love at first sight (practically) was so natural. For Emma to spend 2 weeks with Frank Churchill and upon his departure, she admits she is in love with him, but then talks herself out of it! Today, love at first sight is looked down upon or thought of as only a fantasy, even though there a plently of people who admit to its existence. (Ask Trisha!)
If Emma were to have taken place today, or even updated into a movie (like they did with Taming of the Shrew) I am convinced that Mrs. Elton would have been put in her place by Emma. Instead of calling her "pleasant and elegant" when she was really rude and insulting, I believe Emma would have shouted at her, "Your husband was in love with me, just weeks before he married you." Then she would walk away, leaving Mrs. Elton defeated and put in her place.
My favorite quote comes from Mr. Weston, discussing the return of his son.
"I have observed, Mrs. Elton, in the course of my life, that if things are going untowardly one month, they are sure to mend the next." I love it so much. Simple and true.
I'm hoping to have finished Emma within a few days and I will move onto the next book. Summer vacation, why can't you last forever?
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