is a
snob because of the manner in which she treats others. She is condescending toward Miss Bates (a
kindhearted but eccentric spinster) and ends up reducing Miss Bates to tears because of her own
superior attitude. Similarly, when Jane comes to town, she dismisses her without even getting to
know her (because Jane is a rival in beauty and accomplishment). Most significantly, Emma is
snobbish toward Harriet who is supposed to be her friend. Even though Emma seems to want what is
best for Harriet, she assumes that she would know better than Harriet (based solely on her high
opinion of herself and because she holds a higher position in society than does Harriet).
Harriet agreeable goes along allows Emma to discourage (at first) from associating with Mr.
Martin because he is "common" and a farmer.
Fortunately by the
novel's end, Emma has matured and realized her flaws, and most of the effects of her
snobbishness have been righted (Miss Bates forgives her; Jane makes a respectable marriage match
for love, and Harriet and Mr. Martin marry).
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