Harriet Smith's Emma Research Paper

During the 19th century, social ranking was influenced by a combination of factors consisting of one’s reputation, affluence, and family background. Set in the early 19th century England, Emma is a comprehensive reflection of the momentousness of propriety within an upscale English society. In the novel, the most distinguishable and significant contrast between the characters would be an individual’s social class position. Practically governed by their spot in the social pyramid, members within the community are limited to specific social or societal standards ranging from behavior and appearance to communal events and gatherings. When trying to advance beyond their current rank in society, the significance of social ranking is revealed through the interactions between the characters, and the misfortune and censure they …show more content…
By the same token, Emma treats Harriet Smith as a project and believes it is her duty to transform Harriet into a perfect upper class woman, who can one day become a part of the elite. Emma's egotistical nature leads her to the conclusion that Harriet Smith’s friends and acquaintances tarnish her image. According to the unwritten criteria of the social stratification, Harriet Smith had already been categorized in the appropriate social class. Despite this fact, Emma claims that they are restraining Harriet from advancing socially. Therefore, Emma carries out numerous, practically desperate, efforts to improve her. Emma believes that she is the only resident of Highbury who has and aptitude of improving Harriet Smith, instead of improving herself. However, Emma's superficially "benevolent" scheme moreover validates her conceitedness, how she misuses her power and affluence, and the influence a social pyramid within this fictional