Emma · Character

Jane Fairfax

An orphaned, exquisitely accomplished young woman whose reserved manners and uncertain prospects make her the object of Emma's guilt, envy, and persistent neglect.

major

Also known as Jane, Miss Fairfax, Fairfax

First appearance: ix

As a major figure in Emma, Jane Fairfax is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.

Jane Fairfax is the subject of the letter discussed; she is unwell and expected to visit Highbury the following week.

In the storyXIXOpen this moment free

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In XIX: Jane Fairfax is the subject of the letter discussed; she is unwell and expected to visit Highbury the following week. Later, in Chapter XX: Jane returns to Highbury after two years; Emma notes her elegance and…

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See Jane Fairfax in ix

Character Web

13 connections

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Relationship types

Other

Character groups

Central Highbury Society
Secondary and Peripheral Characters

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.

Setup
Escalation
Breaking point
Aftermath
Closing

In this passage, Emma reaches the emotional peak of self-awareness by confronting the discrepancy between her…

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In the story

Jane Fairfax appears across 24 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

XIX
Jane Fairfax is the subject of the letter discussed; she is unwell and expected to visit Highbury the following week.
Chapter XX
Jane returns to Highbury after two years; Emma notes her elegance and beauty but is put off by her cold, cautious manner and secrecy about Weymouth and Mr. Dixon.
Chapter XXI
Jane is present during the discussion of Mr. Elton's engagement and is later the subject of Mr. Knightley's praise and Emma's scrutiny.
Chapter XXIV
Discussed by Frank and Emma; Frank comments on her pale complexion, and Emma defends her appearance.
XXVI
Jane is the subject of the pianoforte mystery, and Frank Churchill draws attention to her unusual hairstyle.
Chapter XXVII
Mentioned in Emma's reflections and Miss Bates's ramble; her musical skill is compared to Emma's, and she is noted as receiving apples from Mr. Knightley.
XXVIII
Playing the new pianoforte; appears nervous and emotional about the instrument, and shows secret delight at Frank Churchill's attentions.
Chapter 23
Looks forward to the ball but later appears composed and unwell; her indifference strikes Emma as odious.
Chapter XXXI
Emma contrasts Harriet's warmth with Jane Fairfax's perceived coldness, praising tenderness of heart over clear-headedness.
Chapter XXXIII
Jane Fairfax is the object of Mrs. Elton's condescending kindness; Emma is surprised she tolerates Mrs. Elton's attentions.
Chapter XXXIV
Shows solicitude about fetching her letters, appears happier after her wet walk, and is invited to Emma's dinner.
Chapter XXXV
Jane is subjected to Mrs. Elton's persistent and unwanted inquiries about her future as a governess, responding with quiet resistance and a sharp remark about the 'governess-trade.'
Chapter XLI
Jane Fairfax is at her grandmother's and reacts with embarrassment and displeasure during the word game.
Chapter XLII
Endures Mrs. Elton's pressure about a governess position, then escapes to the house and asks Emma to cover her departure.
XLIII
Accompanies Miss Bates and Mr. Knightley during the picnic; is present when Emma humiliates her aunt.
Chapter XLIV
Seen looking extremely ill; has decided to accept Mrs. Smallridge's offer as governess, causing her aunt much distress.
Chapter XLV
Refuses Emma's arrowroot and note, later seen walking despite claiming illness, indicating her resolve to avoid Emma's kindness.
XLVI
Revealed as Frank Churchill's secret fiancée; had been on the point of becoming a governess; praised for her steadiness.
Chapter XLVII
Jane Fairfax is the subject of the 'wonderful story' that Harriet initially refers to; Emma believes Jane's troubles are now resolved with the revelation of her engagement.
XLVIII
Jane Fairfax is revealed to be secretly engaged to Frank Churchill; Emma regrets her past suspicions and neglect of Jane.
XLIX
Jane Fairfax is the subject of the engagement news; Mr. Knightley expresses sympathy for her, believing she deserves a better fate.
Chapter L
Revealed as Frank Churchill's secret fiancée; praised for her delicacy and merit in Frank's letter.
LII
Receives Emma warmly, looking well and engaging; her secret engagement is hinted at by Mrs. Elton.
LIV
Spends the day at Randalls with Frank Churchill, causing an awkward reunion with Emma.

Chapter companion notes

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See Jane Fairfax in ix

See Jane Fairfax in XIX