Abstract: Emma is Jane Austen’s masterpiece of her realistic novels, which is considered to be a fiction written in her most mature style with the best integrated structure. This paper aims to discuss the reasons for Emma’s maturity from internal and external factors as an effort of better understanding the heroine’s complex character. Emma used to be an ignorant, selfish and snobbish girl. However, she was born kind and is independent both in thinking and action. When she has made some errors, she can always come down to think and reflect on herself in time, which to some extent contributes to her moral maturity. Moreover, after a series of setbacks and by the influences of her family environment and Mr.Knightley, she  changes her values and learns to respect and care about others. Finally Emma develops into a considerate, selfless and rational woman.   

Key words: Emma; perceptual; rational; character; maturity; morality.

CONTENTS

摘要

Abstract

1.Introduction.1

  1.1 Introduction to Emma

  1.2 Literature Review

2. Emma’s Growth.2

2.1 Internal Factors

  2.1.1 Emma’s Endowment

  2.1.2 Emma’s Self-reflection

2.2 External Factors

  2.2.1 Setbacks

  2.2.2 Family Influences

  2.2.3 Mr. Knightly’s Help

3. Conclusion.7

Bibliography9

Acknowledgments10