Theme
2016 is the bicentennial of publication of Emma, and the Washington DC AGM will recognize that event in its theme, “Emma at 200: ‘No One But Herself.’” Our theme echoes Jane Austen’s reported statement, “I am going to take a heroine whom no one but myself will much like,” as well as Emma’s famous realization that “Mr Knightley must marry no one but herself!”
Emma Woodhouse and her story are singular in many ways: Emma is the only Austen heroine who never travels. She is also Austen’s only wealthy heroine, and the only one not seeking or hoping to be married. Of Austen’s six major works, Emma is the only eponymous novel, and the only one to attract Royal attention. To celebrate the 200th anniversary of the publication of Emma, we invite JASNA members to explore both Emma, the heroine, and Emma, the novel, from a variety of perspectives. There will be a wonderful range of breakout speakers, as well as some special events possible only in Washington. Our plenary speakers are recognized authorities on this novel.