# Letter 27: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## What happens

Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, expressing frustration with the Harlowe family's treatment of her and urging her to reclaim her inheritance. She criticizes Solmes and contrasts him unfavorably with Lovelace, while also discussing her mother's interference and her own views on family duty and independence.

## Themes in this chapter

### Female Agency and Virtue

Anna urges Clarissa to assert her rights and reclaim her inheritance, emphasizing female autonomy within patriarchal constraints.

### Family Obligation and Rebellion

Clarissa's conflict with her family over Solmes and her inheritance highlights the tension between duty and personal will.

### Class and Social Reputation

Anna contrasts Solmes's lack of social grace with Lovelace's charm, reflecting class-based judgments of character.

## Character check-ins

### Anna Howe

Writes passionately to Clarissa, advising her to resume her inheritance and criticizing the Harlowes' behavior.

### Clarissa Harlowe

The recipient of the letter, praised for her virtue but urged to assert her rights.

### Mr. Solmes

Described as odious and physically repulsive, with a hideous smile and unappealing demeanor.

### Robert Lovelace

Mentioned as a charming but intriguing and profligate figure, contrasted with Solmes.

### Mrs. Howe

Anna's mother, who mediates between Anna and Clarissa, expressing some sympathy but also traditional views.

### Mr. Hickman

Expected from London; Anna has asked him to inquire about Lovelace's conduct.

## Key lines

> I have not patience with any of the people you are with.

Anna expresses her frustration with the Harlowe family's treatment of Clarissa.

_Anna's opening line sets the tone of indignation and support._

> Resume, my dear: and that is all I will give myself time to say further, lest I offend you when I cannot serve you.

Anna advises Clarissa to reclaim her inheritance, as it is her right.

_This encapsulates Anna's central argument for Clarissa's agency._

> His very smile (you never saw him smile, I believe; never at least gave him cause to smile) is so little natural to his features, that it appears in him as hideous as the grin of a man in malice.

Anna vividly describes Solmes's unattractive and unnatural smile.

_Anna uses harsh imagery to justify Clarissa's aversion to Solmes._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-27-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters