# Letter 354: Miss Arabella Harlowe, to Miss Howe explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## What happens

Arabella Harlowe writes a sharp reply to Anna Howe, defending the Harlowe family's actions and blaming Clarissa entirely for her own disgrace. She dismisses Anna's criticisms and implies that Anna's advice may have contributed to Clarissa's downfall.

## Themes in this chapter

### Family Obligation and Rebellion

Arabella's letter underscores the family's condemnation of Clarissa's rebellion, framing it as a flagrant error that brings shame upon them.

### Deception and Appearance vs. Reality

Arabella accuses Anna of deception and implies that Clarissa's actions were influenced by outside advice, highlighting the theme of hidden motives and perceived truths.

## Character check-ins

### Arabella Harlowe

Writes a defensive and accusatory letter to Miss Howe, asserting Clarissa's sole responsibility for her situation.

### Anna Howe

Recipient of the letter; Arabella accuses her of meddling and of being too attached to Clarissa.

### Clarissa Harlowe

Referenced as the subject of the dispute; Arabella insists Clarissa's error is entirely her own doing.

## Key lines

> I help to make a sister unhappy!—It is false, Miss!—It is all her own doings!

Arabella denies any responsibility for Clarissa's unhappiness, insisting that Clarissa alone is to blame.

_Arabella's defensive tone reveals the family's refusal to accept any fault in the conflict._

> You are very happy in a prudent and watchful mother.—But else mine cannot be exceeded in prudence; but we had all too good an opinion of somebody, to think watchfulness needful.

Arabella sarcastically compliments Anna's mother while defending her own family's prudence, claiming they trusted Clarissa too much to be watchful.

_This highlights the theme of deception and appearance vs. reality, as the Harlowes' trust is portrayed as misplaced._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-354-miss-arabella-harlowe-to-miss-howe
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters