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A&E Original Movie

Jane Austen's "Emma", Part 2

This two-part A & E drama is an adaptation of Jane Austen's classic tale of a 19th century gentlewoman. Emma is a spirited young woman preoccupied with affairs of the heart and a penchant for matchmaking.

Emma is well suited for classes on European history, literature and womens history. It is suitable for high school.

Vocabulary

• abominable
• artless
• candor
• decorum
• fortnight
• hypocrisy
• impudent
• insolent
• intolerable
• oppressive
• providence
• ridicule

Discussion Questions

1. In Part II we have seen Emma go through a maturation process. How is she different in Part II as opposed to Part I?
2. How would you describe the character of Mr. Churchill? Do you think he is an honorable man?
3. What were your feelings or reactions when the poor children accosted Harriet?
4. Do you think that Emma and Mr. Knightly are well suited? Do you think their age difference mattered? Would it matter today?

Extended Activities

1. Write a different ending for Emma. Perhaps one in which she marries Mr. Churchill. How would the story be different?
2. Write an essay in which you contrast and compare the lifestyles of Emma and her friends to their servants.
3. After viewing this file, compare it with the films Clueless, a 20th century interpretation of Emma. How does the story hold up? Is Jane Austen's basic storyline viable today?