Perhaps Jane Austen's greatest folly in writing this novel was the depth of her misunderstanding of her titular character. Famously remarking on Emma as the "heroine whom no one but [her]self will much like," Austen discredits both herself as an author and Emma as a character and woman. As we explore the social world of Highbury through Emma's eyes, it is near impossible not to find her entirely relatable. Her assessments of her fellow countrymen and women are honest and, at times, cutting; nevertheless, her capacity for performing politeness among her social circles is, with some notable exceptions, admirable. Thus, despite her snide, snobbish, superficial tendencies, Austen's heroine is very much likable, if not lovable, and the transformation of her character throughout the novel only increased my love for her.
Each Austen novel encourages me to read more of her fabulous work, and I cannot wait to add more Austen to my list.