Emma Woodhouse: 21-year old aristocrat and protagonist, with “very little to distress or vex her,” smart, humorous, and bold. Emma is the overconfident “matchmaker,” but against marriage for herself. Austen created this conceited and self-serving female lead as one “whom no one but myself would much like.”
Mr. Woodhouse: Emma’s father, fearful of change, and crotchety but loveable.
Harriet Smith: Emma’s new “best friend,” socially awkward and quirky. She is a hopeless romantic and becomes Emma’s object of her matchmaking schemes.
Mr. Knightley: Emma’s wealthy neighbor and brother-in-law, ready to argue and point out Emma’s flaws, but harbors a paternal instinct to see her be her best self.
Miss Bates: Emma’s oldest friend, chatty and a gossip, a social class below Emma.
Mrs. Bates: Miss Bate’s not-so-hard-of-hearing mother
Jane Fairfax: Miss bate’s niece, keenly observant and beautiful. Although she is Emma’s rival in accomplishment, her lack of fortune forces her to consider employment as a governess.
Mr. Elton: vicar of Highbury with high opinion of himself. He expresses disinterest in Harriet and a desire to marry Emma, although he marries shortly after.
Mrs. Elton: Mr. Elton’s wife, woman with exaggerated mannerisms and lack of decorum
Robert Martin: local farmer, boyish and well-meaning but lacking refinement as a gentleman.
Miss Elizabeth Martin: Robert’s sister. Harriet’s desire to rekindle her friendship with her serve as a dilemma for Emma, who worries that she may accept Mr. Martin’s marriage proposal.
Mr. Weston: Emma’s neighbor, calm and well-mannered, who sent his son to be raised by Miss Churchill’s sister and brother-in-law.
Mrs. Weston: Emma’ former governess and oldest friend, married to Mr. Weston. She is known for her warm temperament and devotion to Emma.
Frank Churchill: Mr. Weston’s son, handsome and polished as perceived by Emma, but also irresponsible and deceitful. He is a potential suitor for Emma.
