Emma is experiencing an ultimate degree of comeuppance. Almost everything, including Mrs. Weston's report of Jane, stands in direct contrast to her unhappiness. Emma's reaction to the situation—her feelings and thoughts—epitomize Miss Austen's concern with the results, rather than the high and dramatic moment, of strong emotions. The delineation of Emma's reflections represents the low point of her career, and the question is will she submit to the circumstances or will she find inner resource enough to cope with them, either in the old way or a new one? Is Emma as strong as she has seemed?
