Emma is one of Jane Austen's most popular novels, in large part due to the impact of Emma Woodhouse, the "handsome, clever and rich" heroine. This lively, informed and insightful guide to Emma explores the style, structure, themes, critical reputation and literary influence of Jane Austen's classic novel and also discusses its film and TV versions. It includes points for discussion, suggestions for further study and an annotated guide to relevant reading. This introduction to the text is the ideal companion to study, offering guidance on the literary and historical context, reading the text, the critical reception and publishing history, adaptation and interpretation and a guide to further reading.