Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 235: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained
Lovelace recounts a dialogue between Clarissa and the women of the house (Mrs.
What happens
Lovelace recounts a dialogue between Clarissa and the women of the house (Mrs. Moore and Miss Rawlins), where Clarissa refuses to acknowledge him as her husband and condemns his deceitful behavior. He attempts to reconcile with her, kneeling and pleading for forgiveness, but she rebuffs him, asserting her moral superiority and independence. The chapter ends with Lovelace taking lodgings at the house, hoping to win her over.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Lovelace's manipulative dialogue and Clarissa's recognition of his 'black heart' highlight the theme of deceit versus true character.
Female Agency and Virtue
Clarissa asserts her moral independence and refuses to forgive Lovelace, demonstrating her agency and virtue despite her compromised situation.
Power and Manipulation
Lovelace's strategic use of kneeling, promises, and third-party persuasion illustrates his manipulative pursuit of power over Clarissa.
Characters to notice
- Robert Lovelace
Narrates the chapter, describes his manipulative dialogue and attempts to reconcile with Clarissa.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Refuses to acknowledge Lovelace as her spouse, condemns his actions, and asserts her moral integrity.
- Miss Rawlins
Engages in dialogue with Clarissa, attempting to persuade her to see Lovelace and hear his side.
- Mrs. Moore
Acts as messenger and mediator, later informs Clarissa of dinner and Lovelace's lodging arrangements.
- John Belford
Recipient of Lovelace's letter, addressed directly throughout the narrative.
Key passages
“Listners seldom hear good of themselves.”
People who eavesdrop often hear negative things about themselves.
Lovelace reflects on the proverb after listening to Clarissa's conversation.
“He can put on the appearance of an angel of light; but has a black, a very black heart!”
He can seem like a good person, but he is truly evil inside.
Clarissa describes Lovelace's deceptive nature to Miss Rawlins.
“My mind is not sunk with my fortunes. It is, on the contrary, raised above fortune, and above you.”
My spirit remains strong despite my financial ruin, and I consider myself superior to you.
Clarissa asserts her moral superiority over Lovelace despite her reduced circumstances.