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Emma Home Quotes

How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #4

Her objections to Mr. Knightley's marrying did not in the least subside. She could see nothing but evil in it. It would be a great disappointment to Mr. John Knightley; consequently to Isabella. A real injury to the children—a most mortifying change, and material loss to them all;—a very great deduction from her father's daily comfort—and, as to herself, she could not at all endure the idea of Jane Fairfax at Donwell Abbey. (26.88)

Emma’s objections to a potential match for Mr. Knightley are expressed in terms of how everybody in her social circle would feel about such a change, not just her own reaction.

Quote #5

It was just what it ought to be, and it looked what it was—and Emma felt an increasing respect for it, as the residence of a family of such true gentility, untainted in blood and understanding. (42.35)

Donwell Abbey is the absent center of this novel. It’s everything a country house should be – which makes it the ideal for anyone (including Emma).

Quote #6

It was a sweet view—sweet to the eye and the mind. English verdure, English culture, English comfort, seen under a sun bright, without being oppressive. (42.39)

Again, Donwell is perfect not just because it’s beautiful. It’s also perfectly English.