Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 176: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe explained
Clarissa writes to Anna Howe about her deteriorating relationship with Lovelace after he nearly intercepted one of Anna's letters.
What happens
Clarissa writes to Anna Howe about her deteriorating relationship with Lovelace after he nearly intercepted one of Anna's letters. She describes his aggressive behavior and her growing realization that she is too much in his power. She resolves to seek reconciliation with her family through her uncle, hoping to abandon Lovelace if given hope. She reflects on her own folly in allowing her eye to betray her judgment, warning other women to guard against such weakness.
Themes in this chapter
Female Agency and Virtue
Clarissa asserts her agency by seeking to break free from Lovelace's power and reconcile with her family, while reflecting on her own moral failings.
Power and Manipulation
Lovelace's aggressive behavior and attempt to intercept Clarissa's correspondence demonstrate his manipulative control over her.
Characters to notice
- Clarissa Harlowe
Writes to Anna about her conflict with Lovelace and her desire to reconcile with her family.
- Robert Lovelace
Nearly intercepts a letter from Anna, leading to a confrontation and Clarissa's decision to distance herself.
- Anna Howe
Recipient of Clarissa's letter; Clarissa seeks her approval for an application to her uncle.
- Mr. John Harlowe
Clarissa's uncle, to whom she wishes to apply for hope of reconciliation.
Key passages
“Guard your eye: ’twill ever be in a combination against your judgment.”
Be careful with what you look at, because your eyes will always work against your better judgment.
Clarissa warns Anna about the danger of letting visual attraction override reason.
“I would atone for my fault at any rate, even by the sacrifice of a limb or two, if that would do.”
I would do anything to make up for my mistake, even if it meant losing an arm or a leg.
Clarissa expresses deep regret for her actions and a willingness to suffer greatly to undo them.