Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 435: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe explained
Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, gently reproving her for her 'sprightly airs' and teasing treatment of Mr.
What happens
Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, gently reproving her for her 'sprightly airs' and teasing treatment of Mr. Hickman. She argues that a woman should treat her suitor with dignity and respect, not with whimsical penances that make him appear weak. Clarissa reflects on her own difficult situation with Lovelace, noting that her own behavior was misconstrued due to her constrained circumstances. She advises Anna to show generosity and reason in her conduct, warning that public disrespect can undermine a husband's reputation and the wife's own delicacy.
Themes in this chapter
Female Agency and Virtue
Clarissa counsels Anna to exercise her agency with dignity and reason, rather than through capricious tests, linking virtuous conduct to lasting respect.
Friendship and Loyalty
Clarissa writes with frank, caring advice to her friend, showing deep loyalty even as she herself is gravely ill.
Characters to notice
- Clarissa Harlowe
Writes to Anna with grave advice about treating a suitor with dignity, reflecting on her own painful experience with Lovelace.
- Anna Howe
Is gently chided by Clarissa for her 'sprightly airs' and for subjecting Mr. Hickman to humiliating tests during a family visit.
- Mr. Hickman
Mentioned as the worthy but modest suitor whom Anna is advised to treat with respect and generosity.
- Robert Lovelace
Referenced as the man who taxed Clarissa's behavior with stiffness and distance, and as a unique example of audacity that Anna need not fear.
Key passages
“A modest man should no more be made little in his own eyes , than in the eyes of others .”
A humble man should not be humiliated either privately or publicly.
Clarissa argues that belittling a suitor damages his confidence and reflects poorly on the woman's choice.
“I love an obliging, and even an humble , deportment in a man to the woman he addresses. It is a mark of his politeness, and tends to give her that opinion of herself, which it may be supposed bashful merit wants to be inspired with.”
I appreciate a man who is courteous and even deferential to the woman he courts, as it shows good manners and helps build her self-esteem.
Clarissa distinguishes between natural humility and forced submission, advocating for a balanced dynamic.
“to condescend with dignity , and to command with such kindness , and sweetness of manners , as should let the condescension, while in a single state, be seen and acknowledged, are points, which a wise woman, knowing her man , should aim at”
A wise woman should learn to be gracious without losing her dignity, and to assert herself with such kindness that her generosity is recognized.
Clarissa outlines an ideal of feminine authority that is gentle yet firm, rooted in mutual respect.