Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 211: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained
Lovelace feigns illness by taking ipecacuanha to manipulate Clarissa's sympathy and confirm her love for him.
What happens
Lovelace feigns illness by taking ipecacuanha to manipulate Clarissa's sympathy and confirm her love for him. He orchestrates a scene where Dorcas reveals his 'dangerous' condition, prompting Clarissa to visit and show concern. Lovelace revels in her pity, believing he has secured her forgiveness and a fresh start, while mocking the household's complicity.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Lovelace orchestrates a false illness to manipulate Clarissa's emotions, highlighting the theme of deception and the gap between appearance and reality.
Power and Manipulation
Lovelace's calculated use of feigned sickness to gain Clarissa's sympathy and control her perceptions exemplifies his manipulative power.
Characters to notice
- Robert Lovelace
Feigns illness using ipecacuanha to manipulate Clarissa's sympathy; gloats over her concern and believes he has secured her love and forgiveness.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Shows genuine concern for Lovelace's feigned illness; her pity and tears convince Lovelace she loves him and forgives his past transgressions.
- Dorcas Wykes
Follows Lovelace's instructions to feign distress and secretly inform Clarissa of his 'illness,' playing a key role in the deception.
- Mrs. Sinclair
Present during the scene; joins the household in feigned concern and praise for the 'happy couple.'
- Polly Horton
Mentioned as part of the household chorus that expresses relief and admiration for Lovelace and Clarissa.
Key passages
“In short, Belford, I have gained my end. I see the dear soul loves me. I see she forgives me all that’s past. I see I have credit for a new score.”
Lovelace believes his trick has succeeded: Clarissa's concern proves her love and forgiveness, giving him a fresh chance to win her over.
Lovelace's triumphant conclusion after Clarissa shows pity for his feigned illness.
“I was well already, on taking the styptic from her dear hands.”
Lovelace claims that Clarissa's touch alone cured him, emphasizing his emotional manipulation.
Lovelace's hyperbolic expression of being healed by Clarissa's presence.
“What a new, what a gay creation it makes all at once in a diffident or dispirited heart!”
Praise from a loved one can transform a doubtful or sad heart into a joyful one.
Lovelace reflects on the power of Clarissa's praise to uplift him.