Self-discovery is the predominant theme that appears in Jane Austen's
             novels, Emma and Pride and Prejudice. Emma discovers herself through other
             characters, which allow her to see herself as she really is and also cause
             her to mature. Emma values money and social position over matters of the
             heart. Elizabeth and Darcy illustrate how individuals must overcome their
             own pride before they can develop. Austen uses complicated relationships
             to illustrate the importance of humility. Her characters must undergo a
             certain amount of self-discovery in order to achieve happiness.
             Emma represents the upper-class society and has lived a somewhat
             sheltered life at Hartfield. We are told, "Emma Woodhouse, handsome,
             clever, and rich, with a comfortable home and happy disposition, seemed to
             unite some of the best blessings of existence; and had lived nearly twenty-
             one years in the world with very little to distress or vex her" (Emma 1996
             299). This image of Emma is one of a spoiled child with no real experience
             While Emma is certainly well educated, we are told "the real evils of
             Emma's situation were the power of having rather too much her own way, and
             a disposition to think a little too well of herself" (299). Emma is a
             busybody. She also enjoys gossip and playing matchmaker for the people in
             her life. These are characteristics she will exhibit as the novel
             progresses, regardless of the possible dangers involved. In fact, she
             takes pride in her meddling, as seen when she reminds Mr. Knightley, that
             she arranged for Harriet and Mr. Weston to met each other. She says, "I
             made the match myself . . . When so many people said Mr. Weston would never
             marry again, may comfort me for anything" (304). She then tells her
             father, "You cannot think that I shall leave off the match-making" (304).
             This statement clearly reveals Emma's arrogance.
             Similarly, Elizabeth is very proud of bei...