Emily Tyndorf
topic G
There are many symbols all throughout the novel Emma by Jane Austen. A recurring theme is word play such as the riddle and the word game.The riddles in the novel also known as charades are a form of elaborate wordplay that are used as persuasive subtexts that relieve themselves in their larger social circles. In chapter 9, Elton is “invited to contribute any really good enigmas, charades or conundrums that he might recollect”(66).Emma decoded the riddle and thinks its meant for Harriet when its really meant for her. This word play also makes an appearance at the box party in chapter 14. A word game is played at the party between Emma, Frank and Jane. It functions as a metaphor for the misunderstandings that exists among Emma, Frank, Jane and Mr. Knightly. Nobody knows whats going on because no one confessions enough information tot tell whats really going on. In this novel, many characters stretch the truth or mix up their words to have a new meaning. They consistently lie or contradict themselves in ways that show their true identity. The wordplay is shown in both chapter, chapter 14 and various other times throughout the remainder of the book. I feel that the way certain people talk in the novel convey word play. For example Frank is always contradicting himself and this creates some confusion in his relationship with others. Overall the characters in this book stretch the truth among each other and never truly understanding each others feelings.
Emily, I liked your point of view on the riddles the characters in Emma use. Many authors, like Shakespeare, have their roles use wordplay to include different elements to their writing. These characters typically understand the wordplay that others are using; however, riddles and charades seem to only cause confusion in Emma, as you wrote. Jane Austen may include these elements of disorder to create a humorous tone in the novel. Emma could easily be a very serious and dreary novel, but the comic relief added by Austen gives the book funny undertone. In addition, I agree with your comment about characters stretching the truth in order to conceal their true feelings.
ReplyDelete