Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 201: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained
Lovelace recounts a heated confrontation with Clarissa, who rebukes him for his ill humor and lack of merit.
What happens
Lovelace recounts a heated confrontation with Clarissa, who rebukes him for his ill humor and lack of merit. He attempts to justify his behavior, but she remains resolute, declaring her soul above him. After she retreats in distress, Lovelace reflects on her 'weakness of heart' versus her strength of will, and plots new strategies, including a fabricated story about Mrs. Fretchville's smallpox to delay their move.
Themes in this chapter
Female Agency and Virtue
Clarissa asserts her moral superiority and refuses to be cowed by Lovelace's manipulation, declaring her soul above him.
Power and Manipulation
Lovelace plots to control Clarissa through deception, including a fabricated story about Mrs. Fretchville and plans to counterplot Miss Howe.
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Lovelace's narrative reveals his strategic lies (e.g., the smallpox story) and his intent to present a false front to Clarissa.
Characters to notice
- Robert Lovelace
Narrates the letter; describes his quarrel with Clarissa and his manipulative plans.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Confronts Lovelace with indignation, accuses him of ungenerous behavior, and expresses her distress.
- John Belford
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses him directly.
- Anna Howe
Mentioned as Clarissa's friend; Lovelace resents her influence and plans to counterplot her.
- Polly Horton
Visits Clarissa and reports her emotional state to Lovelace.
- Mrs. Fretchville
Mentioned in Lovelace's fabricated story about smallpox to delay the house transfer.
Key passages
“My soul is above thee, man! with both her hands pushing me from her!—Urge me not to tell thee, how sincerely I think my soul above thee!—Thou hast, in mine, a proud, a too proud heart to contend with!—Leave me, and leave me forever!—Thou has a proud heart to contend with!”
Clarissa declares her moral superiority over Lovelace and demands he leave her forever, emphasizing her unyielding pride.
Highlights Clarissa's defiance and Lovelace's admiration despite her harsh words.
“I must have recourse to my masterstrokes. This cursed project of Miss Howe and her Mrs. Townsend (if I cannot contrive to render it abortive) will be always a sword hanging over my head.”
Lovelace resolves to use his most cunning schemes to thwart Miss Howe's plan to rescue Clarissa.
Reveals Lovelace's ongoing manipulation and fear of losing control.