Which Jane Austen Novel Is The Origin Of The Film “Clueless”?

Although it doesn't appear in the credits, to anyone who has read "Emma" the parallels are unmissable. Both novel and film feature a charming, rich girl, the adored daughter of a widowed father, who interferes in others' lives and, with the best of intentions, causes a good deal of harm. Emma tries to mould and "improve" her unsophisticated friend Harriet, just as Cher does with Tai – and finds to her alarm that the younger girl is less meek and malleable than she seems. Both heroines are criticised and lectured, but secretly loved, by men who are more mature and wordly-wise than themselves. Each has an unsuccessful attempt at a love affair before finding her "true love"; and they both undergo a very similar learning process, becoming rounded, serious individuals by the end of the book/film.
Despite its contemporary setting, "Clueless" is closer to Jane Austen's style and humour than many a "faithful" adaptation.

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