Shanon Murphy- Blog Post #2

Social Status and Marriage
~Blog Post #2~

Topic A

April 24, 2015

By Shanon Murphy

Throughout Jane Austen’s Emma, marriage is a common theme and controversial topic discussed many times among the characters. As it is today, marriage is a significant event in the characters’ lives, and they spend much of their time looking for potential matches throughout the book. These matches, however, do not have anything to do with romantic feelings for someone. Most of the matches formed or attempted to form have to do with the social status and manners of the other person. For the women in Hartfield and Highbury, marriage is important as it is a way to rise up in social status. Emma notices this fact when she points out how it is “’incomprehensible to a man that a woman should ever refuse an offer of marriage’” (53). This quote displays an aspect of the theme of social status and marriage that continues to develop throughout the book.

After Harriet declines Mr. Martin’s proposal, a heated debate arises between Mr. Knightley and Emma over the situation. Mr. Knightley is baffled when he hears Harriet says no to Mr. Martin, as he feels “’the advantage of the match’” to be on Harriet’s side (54).  Since Harriet’s true status is unknown, he believes that Harriet would benefit from marrying Mr. Martin, who, in his opinion, is far more clever and smarter than Harriet. Emma disagrees with all that Mr. Knightley says and thinks he is “’unjust to Harriet’” (55). Emma thinks Harriet will have the power to choose among many men as her spouse because of her beauty and manner. Emma believes that Mr. Elton, a very handsome, rich man, will be a much better companion for Harriet, as he is higher up in social status.

This is just a small look into the complications match making and marriage create throughout the book. Without even talking to Harriet or considering if there is any love between her and these men, Emma and Mr. Knightley angrily debate on what Harriet should do. Much of their conversation is based on what one person has to offer the other with social status, such as money, looks, and manners. This statement supports the significant quote above by Emma, in which she points out most women are just looking for a man to boast their popularity, so it would be unheard of for her to deny the chance to be married. The characters barely consider the feelings of the relationship, which is a common theme that continues to make problems throughout the book.