Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 172: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq. explained
Belford writes to Lovelace, pleading with him to spare Clarissa from his malicious designs.
What happens
Belford writes to Lovelace, pleading with him to spare Clarissa from his malicious designs. He condemns Lovelace's cruelty and warns him of the moral consequences, while also revealing that his uncle is dying and he must attend to him.
Themes in this chapter
Libertinism and Morality
Belford directly challenges Lovelace's libertine ethos, urging him to consider the moral weight of his actions against Clarissa.
Suffering and Redemption
Belford invokes Clarissa's innocence and suffering, suggesting that her merit might yet redeem Lovelace from his wicked path.
Characters to notice
- John Belford
Writes a passionate letter imploring Lovelace to abandon his plans against Clarissa, and reports his uncle's imminent death.
- Robert Lovelace
The recipient of Belford's letter; Belford appeals to his conscience and warns him against proceeding with his schemes.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Referred to as a 'sweet lamb' and 'charming object' whom Belford hopes Lovelace will spare.
Key passages
“I know that thou art so abandoned a man, that to give thee the best reasons in the world against what thou hast once resolved upon will be but acting the madman whom once we saw trying to buffet down a hurricane with his hat.”
Belford says that Lovelace is so depraved that reasoning with him is as futile as a madman trying to stop a hurricane with his hat.
Belford expresses his frustration at Lovelace's stubbornness.
“If she yield to fair seductions , if I may so express myself! if thou canst raise a weakness in her by love, or by arts not inhuman; I shall the less pity her: and shall then conclude, that there is not a woman in the world who can resist a bold and resolute lover.”
Belford says that if Clarissa succumbs to gentle seduction or non-cruel methods, he will pity her less and believe no woman can resist a determined lover.
Belford sets a conditional standard for his sympathy, reflecting contemporary views on female virtue.