In Jane Austen's "Emma", "Mr. Woodhouse is merely a figure of provoking gentle fun." Discuss the importance of his character in relation to the plot and structure of the novel.

The Woodhouses have a good deal of sway over the lives and affairs of the other members of their community. In the first chapter of the novel, the reader learn that Mr. Woodhouse finds homes for maids in other households, while Emma does essentially the same for her acquaintances, in attempting to pair them off with husbands and wives. The narrator presents this overzealous concern for other people's well being as an entirely harmless characteristic, …

…tends to get annoyed by him at times. Therefore, his kindness and docility is set to be an example to Emma, even though it contrasts with her nature and character. In addition, Mr. Woodhouse's inefficiency of being an authoritative father allows Emma to do what she pleases, but this also allows Mr. Knightly to become the father figure and learning tool in Emma's life and therefore, their relationship ends up to be a "happy union".