Emma

Emma by Jane Austen (1815)

"Emma Woodhouse, handsome, clever, and rich" — a young woman convinced of her matchmaking genius repeatedly misreads everyone around her, including herself. Austen's most sophisticated comedy and her personal favorite.

Historical Significance:
Austen described Emma as "a heroine whom no one but myself will much like." She was wrong — Emma Woodhouse became one of literature's most beloved characters precisely because of her flaws. The novel is dedicated to the Prince Regent (later George IV), who was a fan of Austen's work. Published in December 1815 by John Murray (Lord Byron's publisher), it was the last novel published in Austen's lifetime — she died in July 1817 at age 41. The 1995 film Clueless transposed the plot to a Beverly Hills high school, proving Austen's social observations are timeless.

This public domain classic was originally published in 1815. Free to read and share.