# Letter 374: Mrs. Norton, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## What happens

Mrs. Norton writes to Clarissa, reporting that her son is recovering and that Clarissa's letter to her sister has been received and answered, though the family remains divided and unwilling to believe Clarissa is truly ill. She expresses sorrow over Clarissa's arrest, gently questions Clarissa's refusal of Lovelace, and reflects on the difficulty of knowing what to pray for. She hints at a plan to try to move Clarissa's mother to relent.

## Themes in this chapter

### Suffering and Redemption

Mrs. Norton reflects on Clarissa's suffering, including her arrest and illness, and suggests that even great evils may produce good, urging resignation to divine will.

### Family Obligation and Rebellion

The letter highlights the family's continued division over Clarissa's actions, their refusal to believe her illness, and Mrs. Norton's attempt to mediate between Clarissa and her mother.

## Character check-ins

### Clarissa Harlowe

The recipient of the letter; Mrs. Norton addresses her with deep affection and concern, noting her illness and the family's disbelief.

### Mrs. Judith Norton

The writer; she reports on her son's health, her own weakness, and her efforts to intercede with the Harlowe family on Clarissa's behalf.

### Arabella Harlowe

Mentioned as the sister who received and answered Clarissa's letter; the family was in a ferment over it.

### Betty Barnes

Serves as a messenger between Mrs. Norton and the Harlowes; she reports on the family's reactions and is shown passages from Clarissa's letter.

### Anna Howe

Mentioned in connection with a past interaction with Miss Harlowe that aggravated the family situation.

## Key lines

> What a dreadful thing indeed was it for my dearest tender young lady to be arrested in the streets of London!

Mrs. Norton expresses horror that Clarissa was arrested in public in London.

_Mrs. Norton's reaction to Clarissa's arrest, emphasizing the shock and indignity._

> I am glad you are with such honest people; and that you have all your effects restored.

Mrs. Norton is relieved that Clarissa is staying with trustworthy people and has recovered her belongings.

_Acknowledges Clarissa's current living situation and the return of her possessions._

> Your talent at moving the passions is always hinted at; and this Betty of your sister's never comes near me that she is not full of it.

Betty Barnes frequently mentions Clarissa's ability to stir emotions whenever she visits Mrs. Norton.

_Highlights Clarissa's rhetorical skill as noted by the family's servant._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-374-mrs-norton-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters