Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 392: Miss Ar. Harlowe, to Miss Cl. Harlowe explained
Arabella Harlowe responds harshly to Clarissa's letter of July 29, refusing further correspondence and condemning her sister's actions.
What happens
Arabella Harlowe responds harshly to Clarissa's letter of July 29, refusing further correspondence and condemning her sister's actions. She expresses the family's disgrace and shame, stating that Clarissa's penitence is doubted and that no one is willing to forgive her.
Themes in this chapter
Family Obligation and Rebellion
Arabella's letter underscores the family's rejection of Clarissa due to her rebellion, highlighting the tension between familial duty and personal actions.
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Arabella questions the sincerity of Clarissa's penitence, suggesting it may stem from disappointment rather than true remorse, reflecting doubts about appearances versus reality.
Characters to notice
- Arabella Harlowe
Writes a scathing reply to Clarissa, refusing further letters and expressing the family's shame and anger.
- Clarissa Harlowe
The recipient of the letter, whose pleas for forgiveness are dismissed by Arabella.
Key passages
“I wish you would not trouble me with any more of your letters.”
Arabella tells Clarissa to stop writing to her.
Arabella refuses further correspondence with Clarissa.
“But your wit and folly have undone you.”
Your cleverness and foolishness have ruined you.
Arabella blames Clarissa's intelligence and poor choices for her downfall.
“I never in my life saw a cockered favourite come to good.”
I have never seen a spoiled favorite turn out well.
Arabella implies that Clarissa was overly indulged and that led to her ruin.
“I am afraid and ashamed to go to any public or private assembly or diversion.”
I am too embarrassed to attend any social events.
Arabella expresses the social shame Clarissa's actions have brought upon the family.
“it is too probable, Miss Clary, that, had not your feather-headed villain abandoned you, we should have heard nothing of these moving supplications”
It is likely that if your foolish villain had not left you, we would not have heard these heartfelt pleas.
Arabella doubts the sincerity of Clarissa's repentance, suggesting it is only due to Lovelace's abandonment.