"Emma" is one of the famous novels by Jane Austen and was first published in 1816. Unlike most of the other female protagonists in Austen´s novels the heroine Emma Woodhouse shows no real romantic interest in men. Instead of getting involved into a relationship herself she prefers meddling in other people´s lives. She is absolutely self-satisfied, although the conclusions of her imagination and perceptions often lead her astray. But finally, it comes to her self-revelation concerning her own true affections. "I am going to take a heroine whom no one but myself will much like." (Jane Austen) "Emma" is one of the best-loved and essential classics in English literature. Like Austen´s other novels it retains a fascination for modern readers, and has been adapted for several films as well as for a long list of dramatic plays. Some critics place this novel even higher than Austen´s masterpiece "Pride and Prejudice".