Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 316: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe explained
Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, revealing that a letter she previously sent was a forgery by Lovelace.
What happens
Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, revealing that a letter she previously sent was a forgery by Lovelace. She details how Lovelace manipulated events, including having a woman impersonate Clarissa at Hampstead, and expresses horror at his villainy. Anna urges Clarissa to seek legal vengeance and reflects on the dangers of libertines. She also mentions her mother's conditions for their future correspondence.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Anna reveals Lovelace's forged letter and impersonation of Clarissa, highlighting the theme of deception and the contrast between appearance and truth.
Friendship and Loyalty
Anna's unwavering support and concern for Clarissa, despite the deception, underscores the theme of friendship and loyalty.
Libertinism and Morality
Anna condemns Lovelace's libertine behavior, linking his villainy to the broader moral dangers of rakes and libertines.
Characters to notice
- Anna Howe
Writes to Clarissa, exposing Lovelace's forgery and manipulation, and expresses her outrage and concern.
- Clarissa Harlowe
The recipient of the letter, who has been deceived by Lovelace's forged letter and impersonation.
- Robert Lovelace
The villain who forged Anna's letter, arranged an impersonation of Clarissa, and continues his deceitful schemes.
- Captain Tomlinson
Mentioned as a possible accomplice or familiar of Lovelace, suspected by Anna of being part of the deception.
- Mrs. Sinclair
Referenced as an execrable figure, possibly assuming a role in Lovelace's schemes.
- Lady Betty Lawrance
Mentioned as one of the personas Lovelace's familiar might assume, and as part of the false visit to Clarissa at Hampstead.
Key passages
“The letter you sent me enclosed as mine, of the 7th of June, is a villainous forgery.”
The letter you thought was from me, dated June 7th, is actually a wicked fake.
Anna informs Clarissa that Lovelace forged a letter to deceive her.
“I am astonished, that the vile wretch, who could know nothing of the time my messenger... would come, could have a creature ready to personate you!”
I am shocked that the villain, who couldn't have known when my messenger would arrive, had someone ready to pretend to be you.
Anna expresses amazement at Lovelace's ability to have an impersonator ready.
“I have no doubt that the same or equal wickedness would be oftener committed by men of his villainous cast, if the folly and credulity of the poor inconsiderates who throw themselves into their hands, did not give them an easier triumph.”
I believe that men like him would commit such evil acts more often if foolish and gullible women didn't make it easier for them.
Anna reflects on how women's naivety enables libertines' wickedness.