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Dramatic Irony
Chapter 4
Explanation and Analysis—Emma and Harriet:
Through her close friendship with Emma and overlapping romantic entanglements (with Mr. Elton and Knightley), Harriet becomes a foil to Emma, meaning that her presence reveals more about Emma as the main character. While Emma is “handsome, clever, and rich” (and confident), Harriet is only somewhat attractive, not very bright, and poor.
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Chapter 10
Explanation and Analysis—Emma and Jane:
Jane Fairfax acts a foil for Emma throughout the novel, meaning that her presence illuminates certain aspects of Emma's character. While Emma is agreeable and outgoing, Jane is reserved and humble. While Emma is physically robust, Jane is smaller and somewhat sickly. Emma has also been stuck in Highbury her whole life, while Jane has traveled and become quite accomplished for her age.
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Chapter 48
Explanation and Analysis—Emma and Jane:
Jane Fairfax acts a foil for Emma throughout the novel, meaning that her presence illuminates certain aspects of Emma's character. While Emma is agreeable and outgoing, Jane is reserved and humble. While Emma is physically robust, Jane is smaller and somewhat sickly. Emma has also been stuck in Highbury her whole life, while Jane has traveled and become quite accomplished for her age.
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Chapter 51
Explanation and Analysis—Frank and Knightley:
As Emma’s two romantic interests in the novel, Frank and Knightley become foils for each other, meaning their juxtaposition reveals truths about each character. Knightley is 37 years old, an esteemed gentleman, and someone Emma has known since she was born. Frank, on the other hand, is 23 years old, a playful flirt, and new to town.
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