After arranging a friend's marriage, the incorrigible Emma Woodhouse turns her attention to matching Mr. Elton, the local vicar, with Harriet Smith, her new protégé.
Emma has just attended the marriage of a dear friend and is now convinced that her own life will become boring and dull.
Emma befriends Harriet Smith, a young teacher. Although an inveterate matchmaker, she has encouraged Harriet to reject Robert Martin.
After encouraging Harriet to fall in love with Mr Elton, Emma now has to face the unpleasant task of telling Harriet about Mr Elton's proposal to her.
Frank Churchill and Emma have been discussing Jane Fairfax and the mystery behind the piano she's been gifted.
Mr Elton has returned to Highbury with a bride, whom Emma dislikes. Mr Knightley and Emma disagree about Jane, who has been taken up by Mrs Elton.
Harriet has been rescued from an embarrassing situation and her susceptible emotions have stirred once more. Emma is reprimanded by Mr Knightley.