Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 102: To Miss Arabella Harlowe explained
Clarissa writes to her sister Arabella, confessing that her elopement with Lovelace was a rash and undutiful act, but one driven by her family's severity and the threat of being forced to marry Solmes.
What happens
Clarissa writes to her sister Arabella, confessing that her elopement with Lovelace was a rash and undutiful act, but one driven by her family's severity and the threat of being forced to marry Solmes. She expresses a desire to return home under reasonable conditions, pleads for leniency to restore her reputation, and requests her clothes, money, books, and jewels be sent to her.
Themes in this chapter
Family Obligation and Rebellion
Clarissa acknowledges her undutiful appearance but justifies her rebellion as a response to her family's harsh treatment and the threat of a forced marriage.
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Clarissa worries about the appearance of her actions and seeks to restore her reputation, highlighting the gap between her intentions and how they are perceived.
Characters to notice
- Clarissa Harlowe
Author of the letter; confesses her fault but defends her actions due to family severity and the threat of Solmes.
- Arabella Harlowe
Recipient of the letter; Clarissa appeals to her for friendship and leniency.
- James Harlowe Jr.
Mentioned as the brother who precipitated Clarissa's actions.
- Mr. Solmes
The man Clarissa was being forced to marry, which motivated her elopement.
Key passages
“I have, I confess, been guilty of an action which carries with it a rash and undutiful appearance.”
I admit that what I did looks impulsive and disobedient.
Clarissa acknowledges the outward appearance of her elopement.
“had I not had too great reason to apprehend, that I was to be made a sacrifice to a man I could not bear to think of.”
I had strong reason to fear I was being forced to marry a man I detested.
Clarissa explains her motive for eloping.
“My reputation, dearer to me than life, (whatever you may imagine from the step I have taken), is suffering.”
My reputation, which I value more than my life, is being damaged by this situation.
Clarissa emphasizes the importance of her reputation.