Emma: Chapter 14 Summary & Analysis

Upon their arrival at the Westons, Mr. Elton attentively shadows Emma, to her continued dismay. She begins to suspect that Mr. John Knightley may be right about his interest in her. Despite her alarm and vexation at Mr. Elton, she strives to remain civil and ladylike.

Emma overhears Mr. Weston announce an upcoming visit from his son, Frank Churchill. She listens with great curiosity, as in spite of her resolution to remain celibate, she has often thought that Frank would be a perfect match for her in age, character, and condition—particularly given their close connection through the Westons—if she were to consider marriage. Thus, she takes an active interest in his affairs and even anticipates a possible dalliance.

Mr. Weston mentions to Emma that Mrs. Weston suspects that Frank’s visit will be put off once more, because his son is so dependent upon the ill-tempered and snobbish Mrs. Churchill’s favor. Mrs. Weston confides her own worries to Emma: she cannot bear to think Frank at fault, and so she is sure that the Churchills strive to keep him for themselves and object to the visit.

Emma puzzles over how a young man—particularly one who is such a favorite—should find himself so constrained from visiting his father, though she can conceive of a young woman being powerless under her guardians’ sway. Mrs. Weston, however, insists that Mrs. Churchill is so unreasonable that one cannot judge Frank for his delay.