Posted by Kathy F. on June 29, 1997 at 18:46:36:
In reply to Re: ...and the battle for Emma's soul... posted by Kali on June 29, 1997 at 18:25:42
] ] At/after Box Hill it changed because he saw how much they were flirting openly. Before, it was just a possibility that they might like each other and was therefore acceptable, in a "grin and bear it" kind of way.
] No, I really don't agree with this. Since the ball at least, Mr. Knightley has known that he wants Emma (he's admittedly loved her since Frank's arrival, and has been attracted to her for years). He just doesn't know how to best go about getting her, especially with Frank in the picture. He's in a very uncomfortable predicament. His main concern is Emma's safety - which is why he doubts Frank, scolds Emma at Box Hill, and rushes home for a damage check when he hears news of the engagement - though he can't come right out and say, "Emma, the guy's a jerk! How could you? Now marry me!" Emma's well-being might be shaken if he were to "force" himself on her while her relationship with Frank remained unresolved and potentially serious.
________
I agree with everything except the first few sentences. Are you referring to the book or Emma2 when you say that he has admittedly loved her since Frank's arrival? I haven't read the book in a while, but I think it says that he has loved her (unadmittedly) since she was 13, but didn't realize it until Box Hill. After he realizes it there, he looks back, and...hind-sight is 20/20 of course.
Kathy