Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 408: Mrs. Norton, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe explained
Mrs.
What happens
Mrs. Norton writes to Clarissa, informing her that her family is now proposing she go to the plantations, influenced by misrepresentations from Mr. Brand. She advises Clarissa to consider accepting Mr. Lovelace's family's requests to marry him, which would silence critics and reconcile her family. Mrs. Norton also reports that Dr. Lewen disapproves of the family's measures and that Clarissa's cousin Colonel Morden has arrived in England, offering a glimmer of hope. She encourages Clarissa to remain patient and virtuous, seeing her suffering as a path to heavenly glory.
Themes in this chapter
Suffering and Redemption
Mrs. Norton frames Clarissa's afflictions as a path to heavenly glory, emphasizing patience and resignation as means to redemption.
Family Obligation and Rebellion
The family's proposal to send Clarissa to the plantations and their rejection of Lovelace's marriage offer highlight ongoing familial conflict and obligation.
Characters to notice
- Clarissa Harlowe
Mrs. Norton addresses her as 'my dear young lady' and advises her on family proposals and maintaining her character.
- Mrs. Judith Norton
The author of the letter, expressing maternal affection and concern for Clarissa.
- Mr. Brand
Mentioned as having sent a letter with misrepresentations that influenced the family's proposals.
- Colonel Morden
Reported to have arrived in England and is expected soon, offering potential hope for Clarissa.
- Dr. Lewen
Expresses concern for Clarissa and disapproves of the family's measures, but is too indisposed to visit.
Key passages
“All your friends here, my dear young lady, now seem set upon proposing to you to go to one of the plantations.”
Your family is now suggesting that you move to a plantation in the colonies.
Mrs. Norton informs Clarissa of her family's latest plan.
“I wish, with all my heart, that you could, consistently with your own notions of honour, yield to the pressing requests of all Mr. Lovelace’s family in his behalf.”
I sincerely hope you can agree to marry Mr. Lovelace as his family urges, without compromising your honor.
Mrs. Norton advises Clarissa to consider accepting Lovelace's marriage proposal.
“I am just now informed that your cousin Morden is arrived in England. He is at Canterbury, it seems, looking after some concerns he has there; and is soon expected in these parts. Who knows what may arise from his arrival?”
I've just learned that your cousin Morden has returned to England and is expected here soon, which might bring a change in your situation.
Mrs. Norton shares hopeful news about Colonel Morden's arrival.