* His love for his home and routine: He's intensely attached to his home, Hartfield, and its surroundings. Any changes or disruption to his daily routine are deeply unsettling to him. This often leads to resistance towards Emma's social activities or even the arrival of guests.
* His hypochondria: He's constantly worrying about his health and prone to exaggerating minor ailments. He's easily frightened and often seeks reassurance from Emma. This constant fretting over his health contributes to his anxiety and need for stability.
* His love for food (especially food-related anxieties): Mr. Woodhouse is a gourmand, particularly fond of rich, sweet foods. However, he also expresses a great deal of anxiety over food quality and preparation, often worrying about whether something might be "too rich" or "not properly cooked." This leads to a lot of specific instructions and requests around meals.
* His need for control and comfort: He wants everything to be familiar and comfortable, from the layout of his home to the company he keeps. He often expresses disapproval of anything new or potentially disruptive to his comfortable routine. This makes him somewhat resistant to change and new experiences.
* His strong opinions (particularly on women's roles): Mr. Woodhouse is deeply traditional and holds firm views on proper female behavior. He strongly believes women should be demure, quiet, and prioritize domesticity. This often clashes with Emma's independent spirit and desire for social engagement.
While Mr. Woodhouse's eccentricities can be frustrating at times, they are ultimately portrayed with humor and affection by Austen. He represents a gentle, well-intentioned man who, despite his quirks, is deeply loved by his family and friends.