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Background:
Not based on the Jane Austin novel
of the same name, Emma, written by Kaoru Mori is a story set in the Victorian Era
in England.
It is about a beautiful maid named Emma who greets Mrs. Stowner's, her governess, old student one day as he was visiting his old teacher and her life begins a romantic adventure filled with love and loss. William, Mrs. Stowner's previous student, is immediately struck by Emma's beauty and is particularly attracted at her mild and sophisticated manner. As time passes, he comes upon her in many "unexpected" meetings. Emma is also flattered by his slightly overeager attitude to please her though she is only a maid. She has had many suitors come after her before, but has never directly been the direct interest of a man in the gentry class.
Unfortunately for Emma and William, William's father eventually finds out about both of them and immediately disapproves stating that even though there is one England, there are two countries within it, those who serve and those who are serviced. Thus, the stage is set for Emma's journey of hardships, knowing her place in society but still loving a man who is forbidden to her and knowing that he feels the same toward her.
Comments:
At first, Emma was a bit hard to get into. The style of drawing was very different
from the usual cutesy style that I have been use to. it was a more mature
lined style that was very much appropriate for the tale that it told. The
plot of the story is like one of the Victorian novels made in those ages to
transcend between classes that was considered scandalously romantic. The chapters
are seem slightly shorter than many manga being around twenty to twenty five
pages. (or it may seem short because it is often left in cliffhangers)
Once into this manga, it really takes over your emotions. Emma is the heroine that you root for just so that she can show people class is no boundary for love. When she had first arrived at Mrs. Stowner's house, she was given a formal education that women had not even thought of receiving in that era, especially since she was just a maid. It pains me that she is so very close to being part of the upper class, but only her background is not up to par with what her mind and manners are at present. Also, the manga is very detailed about Victorian culture and how people's mannerisms mattered so much.
I truly enjoy reading this manga, it has a mature feeling and yet is still shoujo based on a historic romance. If you are enratured with the Victorian era of England and love manga, this is definetly for you.
Characters:
Emma- The main character of this manga, as portrayed by the self title. Due to her beauty, she is the favorite of many men around her, she is confessed to by many, but kindly refuses all because she is only thinks of her duties to Mrs. Stowner. Though she is quiet and reserved, she has the sophistication of a lady due to the education by her governess.
William Jounes- He dislikes the high society of dances and formality. He is aloof in his duties given to him by his father, not wanting to take over the family business. Eldest son of the Jounes', he has two sisters (one older and one younger) and two younger brothers.
Mrs. Stowner- Emma's employer, she was the governess that educated William and also taught decorum to Emma. She is headstrong but kind. And approves of Emma's relations with William, thinking it a strong match no matter their classes.
Hakim- William's Indian friend from his study abroad days. He is one of the many princes over in India. Very carefree and always accompanied by four harem girls, he has a particular intrest in Emma.