Emma is the spoiled, young, and beautiful mistress of Hartfield, the most popular manor in the village of Highbury. Her mother died when she was very young, and she was raised almost like an object of worship by her anxious father who resists change. After the departure of her former governess Miss Taylor, following her sweet but firm upbringing, a great void forms in her life. Emma, who over-relies on her own intelligence and intuition, takes the ordinary but cute Harriet Smith under her wing out of a curiosity for matchmaking. She displays a great example of blindness and thoughtlessness by trying to marry her off to people who are not her equals. Because of her mistakes, she both breaks her friend's heart and is late in discovering her own feelings. Ultimately, she realizes all her misguided actions and realizes through a painful realization that her heart belongs to her oldest friend, Mr. Knightley. By casting off her pride and maturing, she both finds love and learns to leave the lives of those around her alone.
Having lost her mother at a young age, she became the sole mistress of the house after the marriage of her older sister Isabella. She grew up like a sister with her former governess Miss Taylor. Being the daughter of the wealthiest and most respected family in Highbury instilled in her a natural sense of leadership and an invincible arrogance at a young age.
She is a very beautiful girl. She has hazel and bright green eyes, regular facial features, and a clear, healthy complexion. Her height and weight are extremely proportionate; she radiates health. Her head is always held high, standing tall; her walk and posture are full of grace.
Mrs. Weston
Emma's former governess, confidante, and closest older friend, whom she considers almost a mother figure.
Harriet Smith
The naive girl/friend she tried to manage, led down the wrong path multiple times, but whom she eventually set free.
Mr. Woodhouse
The father she loves excessively, worries over constantly, and has sworn never to force into any new changes.
George Knightley
Her most trusted friend, her greatest critic, and the most rational man in her life; ultimately, her life partner.