Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 108: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained
Lovelace writes to Belford, reflecting on his pursuit of Clarissa and his frustration at her rejection.
What happens
Lovelace writes to Belford, reflecting on his pursuit of Clarissa and his frustration at her rejection. He boasts of his restraint and plans to feign reformation to win her over, while expressing anger at her criticisms and hints at future coercion.
Themes in this chapter
Libertinism and Morality
Lovelace contrasts his libertine past with a feigned reformation, using piety as a 'stalking-horse' to achieve his ends.
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Lovelace plans to deceive Clarissa by appearing reformed, while his true intentions remain manipulative.
Power and Manipulation
Lovelace reflects on his power over Clarissa and hints at future coercion, showing his desire to control her.
Characters to notice
- Robert Lovelace
Author of the letter; expresses frustration and plans to feign piety to manipulate Clarissa.
- John Belford
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses him as a confidant and critic.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Subject of Lovelace's pursuit; she criticizes him and declares her intention to leave.
Key passages
“Why, Jack, thou needest not make such a wonderment, as the girls say, if I should have taken large strides already towards reformation: for dost thou not see, that while I have been so assiduously, night and day, pursuing this single charmer, I have infinitely less to answer for, than otherwise I should have had?”
Lovelace argues that his focused pursuit of Clarissa has kept him from other vices, so his reformation is plausible.
Lovelace justifies his behavior by claiming moral progress through selective restraint.
“She has declared in so many words that such was her resolution: And why? Because, to be plain with me, the more she saw of me, and of my ways, the less she liked of either.”
Clarissa told Lovelace directly that she dislikes him more the more she knows him.
Clarissa's rejection stings Lovelace's pride and motivates his shift in tactics.
“What a sad thing it would be, were I, after all, to lose her person, as well as her opinion!”
Lovelace fears losing both Clarissa's body and her good opinion of him.
Lovelace prioritizes possession of Clarissa over her respect, revealing his predatory intent.