Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 300: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Mrs. Judith Norton explained
Clarissa writes to her former nurse, Mrs.
What happens
Clarissa writes to her former nurse, Mrs. Norton, after a long silence, asking for news of her family and whether her father might lift his curse. She reveals that Lovelace has proved barbarous and ungrateful, that she has escaped him, and that she is now living among strangers. She requests Hannah Burton's company, expresses regret over her lost ability to do good, and asks for continued love and prayers.
Themes in this chapter
Suffering and Redemption
Clarissa reflects on her misfortunes, her father's curse, and her hope for release, embodying a quest for redemption through suffering.
Family Obligation and Rebellion
Clarissa's inquiry about her family and her father's curse highlights the tension between familial duty and her rebellious elopement.
Characters to notice
- Clarissa Harlowe
Writes to Mrs. Norton, expressing regret, asking about her family, and revealing her escape from Lovelace.
- Mrs. Judith Norton
Recipient of Clarissa's letter; asked to provide news of the Harlowe family and to encourage Hannah Burton to come.
- Robert Lovelace
Described by Clarissa as a very barbarous and ungrateful man.
- Hannah Burton
Clarissa has written to her to come and be with her; asks Mrs. Norton to encourage her.
- James Harlowe Jr.
Clarissa inquires about a possible journey of her brother with Captain Singleton and Mr. Solmes.
Key passages
“Mr. Lovelace has proved a very barbarous and ungrateful man to me. But, God be praised, I have escaped from him.”
Lovelace has treated me cruelly and without gratitude, but thank God I have gotten away from him.
Clarissa states her escape from Lovelace and condemns his behavior.
“I can expect no other favour from him. But that being literally fulfilled as to my prospects in this life, I hope it will be thought to have operated far enough; and my heart is so weak!”
I don't expect any other kindness from my father, but since his curse has already ruined my hopes in this life, I hope it is considered fulfilled; my heart is very weak.
Clarissa pleads that her father's curse has already taken effect and asks for its removal.