What’s not to love about Emma and Mr. Knightley’s proposal scene in the latest Jane Austen adaptation?
Emma and Mr. Knightley often don’t get as much attention as some of Jane Austen’s more famous couples. Emma isn’t a story filled with pride, prejudice, gothic mansions, or second chances. Instead, their love story is built on a solid foundation of friendship.
Mr. Knightley does scold Emma, but it’s never to be mean. He wants her to be the best version of herself, and she takes his guidance to heart. The most beautiful love stories often involve finding someone who helps you grow.
Let’s also not forget Mr. Knightley’s incredible gesture and sacrifice. He chooses to move into Emma’s home to help take care of her father. This romantic and selfless act shows that he could have easily stayed at his own grand estate but chose Emma’s happiness over his comfort.
Emma and Mr. Knightley’s relationship is about trust and a marriage based on equality, which is truly remarkable for their time. Their romance deserves much more recognition.
With Emma recently released on DVD/Blu-ray, the proposal scene between Emma and Mr. Knightley stands out as a pinnacle of romantic moments. The adaptation, by Autumn de Wilde, initially seemed too modern and trendy, and Johnny Flynn’s portrayal of Mr. Knightley even seemed a bit too alluring. But halfway through the film, my skepticism turned into delight as I got lost in the beautiful world that Autumn had crafted.
Over the past few months, there have been many romantic moments in various media, but none quite as touching as the proposal scene between Emma and Mr. Knightley, complete with its memorable, quirky detail.
Emma Woodhouse (played by Anya Taylor-Joy) enjoys meddling in the romantic lives of others, thinking she’s a gifted matchmaker. Unfortunately, her attempts, like with the pompous Mr. Elton, don’t always go as planned. Despite her lack of desire to marry, Emma’s feelings change when she realizes she loves Mr. Knightley after Harriet turns her affections toward him. Emma fears she may have realized her true feelings too late.
Meanwhile, Mr. Knightley mistakenly believes Emma is upset about Frank Churchill’s engagement to Jane Fairfax. Despite his uncertainty, he feels he needs to express his true feelings to Emma.
In a scene reminiscent of Darcy’s iconic proposal walk, Mr. Knightley approaches Emma and begins to share his feelings vulnerably. Emma, initially misunderstanding, fears Mr. Knightley’s words are meant for Harriet. But she soon realizes she needs to know the truth, no matter how painful it may be.
Mr. Knightley clumsily yet passionately confesses his love, touching Emma’s tear-streaked face, and proposes to her. The speech is incredibly heartfelt and made even more charming by an addition unique to the film: Emma’s nose starts bleeding in a quirky, endearing moment.
Though initially hesitant because of Harriet, Emma ultimately knows she wants to marry Mr. Knightley. The two leave the scene with hopeful thoughts about their future. Emma then seeks to mend things with Harriet and prepares for a challenging conversation with her change-averse father.
With Mr. Knightley’s grand romantic gesture, the story wraps up beautifully with a wedding, capturing all the elegance and romance of a Jane Austen adaptation.
What are your thoughts on the latest Emma adaptation and the portrayal of Emma and Mr. Knightley? Did the nosebleed scene add charm, or did it detract from Austen’s original proposal? Let us know your thoughts…
