Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 101: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe explained
Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, expressing deep concern over the discord between Anna and her mother caused by their correspondence.
What happens
Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, expressing deep concern over the discord between Anna and her mother caused by their correspondence. She reflects on her own loss of character and the painful doubts she endures. Clarissa advises Anna to obey her mother and temporarily cease their correspondence, fearing her own example may corrupt Anna. She discusses her precarious situation with Lovelace, her hopes for reconciliation with her family, and her reliance on her cousin Morden's return. Clarissa also criticizes Lovelace's arrogant spirit and laments being tricked into elopement. She encloses a copy of her letter to her sister and reaffirms her desire to retire to her estate if permitted.
Themes in this chapter
Female Agency and Virtue
Clarissa grapples with her loss of character and reputation, striving to maintain moral integrity despite her compromised situation.
Family Obligation and Rebellion
Clarissa's desire for reconciliation with her family conflicts with her current dependence on Lovelace, highlighting the tension between duty and her rebellious elopement.
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Clarissa reflects on being tricked by Lovelace and the elaborate deception involving Joseph Leman, underscoring the gap between appearances and truth.
Characters to notice
- Clarissa Harlowe
Writes to Anna, expressing guilt over causing family discord and lamenting her loss of character and reputation.
- Anna Howe
Clarissa advises Anna to obey her mother and suspend their correspondence to avoid further conflict.
- Robert Lovelace
Clarissa describes his behavior as arrogant and encroaching, and notes her distrust due to his trickery.
- Mrs. Howe
Clarissa mentions the displeasure between Anna and her mother, and urges Anna to show duty and forbearance.
- Colonel Morden
Clarissa hopes for his return to England to mediate a reconciliation with her family.
- Joseph Leman
Clarissa suspects he acted as Lovelace's vile agent in tricking her into elopement.
Key passages
“I am infinitely concerned, my ever dear and ever kind friend, that I am the sad occasion of the displeasure between your mother and you.”
Clarissa expresses deep regret that her actions have caused conflict between Anna and her mother.
Clarissa's guilt over the rift in Anna's family.
“My talent is scribbling; and I the readier fell into this freedom, as I found delight in writing; having motives too, which I thought laudable; and, at one time, the permission of all my friends; to write to him.”
Clarissa admits her fondness for writing led her into a correspondence that was initially permitted but later became prohibited.
Clarissa's self-justification for her correspondence with Lovelace.
“Must I not, with such a man, be wanting to myself, if I were not jealous and vigilant?”
Clarissa argues that she must be cautious and watchful with Lovelace, given his deceitful nature.
Clarissa's distrust of Lovelace and her need for vigilance.