We had a dear friend over two weeks ago who had never watched a Jane Austen movie before(!!!), so we sat her down and made her watch Emma (my personal favorite), while my sisters and I kept a running commentary, just to make she didn't miss anything. (Some people find us rather annoying to watch movies with, but if you would like to make the most of your movie-watching experience, we are available Monday through Friday between the hours of approximately 8:00 and 10:00. Bring the popcorn.)
Anyway, while watching Emma, I was once again struck by the character of Mr. Knightley. He is by far my favorite hero, especially when his virtues are contrasted with... Mr. Churchill *shudder*. So, I was set to thinking: how can we, as Christians, be Mr. Knightleys in a Mr. Churchill world? Well, lets take a look-see at some of Mr. Knightley's good qualities, shall we? Lights, please!
#1. Good sense. No kidding, here. At times it is one's good sense and maturity that sets one apart from others, especially when you're young.
#2. Respect for the elderly. Mr. Knightley showed a great deal of respect toward Emma's father, Mr. Woodhouse, even though he certainly was a "troublesome creature".
#3. Stark, no-nonsense honesty. This is one of the most wonderful qualities about Mr. Knightley. He never beats around the bush and he lets nothing slide ("Badly done, Emma!"). This kind of friendship can be painful, but it is necessary. "It is not pleasant for me to say these things, but I must tell you the truth while I can, proving myself your friend by the most faithful counsel."
Here's a clip from my favorite version of the movie. I love the archery scene. I call it "Sense and Sensibility". Whoops, is that one already taken?
Have you watched Emma before? If so, what qualities do you admire most about our featured guest? I'd love to hear from you!
Have you watched Emma before? If so, what qualities do you admire most about our featured guest? I'd love to hear from you!
posted by Lydia
2 comments:
That is too funny! Rachel and I do the same thing when watching Emma. We do an entire commentary of the movie. Often saying our favorite lines five or six seconds before the actor/actress does. It annoys other people when we do this too. But we can't help it, we love the movie so much!
I love the archery scene, too! I always laugh when Mr. Knightly warns Emma not to kill his Dogs. And the part which was not in that clip where Emma argues with herself about how she loves John, then hates him, then Loves him! So funny!
What qualities do I like in Mr. Knightly? Hmmm. What do I not like, that's the question!
I like how he is such a gentleman. How he steps in like a knight in shining armor to dance with Harriet when Mr. Elton snubs her. How he always gives Emma his honest opinion. And how courteous he is to Mrs. Bates who is one of my favorite characters in the movie.
We need more guys to be that considerate and thoughtful today!
Love in Christ,
Jessica
I have not personally seen Emma. As a Christian young man it disgusts me that so often I hear other guys my age talk about women in a way that is very demeaning. Being a gentlemen, in the complete sense of the word, is so rare in the present day. I have found on more than one occasion when I hold a door open for a lady, that sometimes they almost have a surprised expression on their face and are truly appreciative. All men should continually work at being better gentlemen with the character traits that you listed.
-Kevin
Post a Comment