Conflict Between Emma and Mrs. Elton

The clash of personalities and social pretensions between Emma and the newly arrived Mrs. Elton.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Mrs. Elton's Arrival

Mrs. Elton's Arrival A Self-Important Bride Mrs. Elton arrives in Highbury with a sense of superiority. She constantly compares the place to Maple Grove and tries to dominate. Emma's First Impression Emma finds Mrs. Elton vulgar and pretentious. She is offended by Mrs. Elton's familiar manner.

The Musical Club Proposal

The Musical Club Proposal An Insulting Suggestion Mrs. Elton proposes that she and Emma start a musical club, implying that Emma is on her level. Emma is insulted. Emma's Polite Refusal Emma coolly declines, maintaining her dignity. Mrs. Elton does not notice the slight.

Patronizing Jane Fairfax

Patronizing Jane Fairfax Mrs. Elton's Interference Mrs. Elton takes an interest in Jane Fairfax, offering to find her a position. She treats Jane as a charity case. Emma's Disapproval Emma is disgusted by Mrs. Elton's condescension. She feels sorry for Jane but cannot intervene effectively.

Open Rivalry

Open Rivalry Mrs. Elton's Attempt to Lead Mrs. Elton tries to assert herself as the leader of local society, especially at the ball. She clashes with Emma's authority. Emma's Resistance Emma refuses to be overshadowed. She maintains her social position and subtly undermines Mrs. Elton's pretensions.

Final Disdain

Final Disdain Mutual Antipathy Emma and Mrs. Elton remain coolly polite but dislike each other. Mrs. Elton is jealous of Emma's engagement to Mr. Knightley. Emma's Victory Emma's marriage to Mr. Knightley solidifies her status. Mrs. Elton's schemes are ultimately futile.

after her marriage to Mr. Elton

during Mrs. Elton's first visit to Hartfield

throughout the spring, as Mrs. Elton takes Jane under her wing

at the Crown Inn ball and other social events

by the end of the story