Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 437: Mr. Wyerley, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Wyerley renews his marriage proposal to Clarissa, praising her virtue and resolution in rejecting Lovelace, and offering his fortune and protection despite her current destitution and persecution.
Themes in this chapter
Female Agency and Virtue
Clarissa's refusal to forgive Lovelace is celebrated as an act of magnanimity and adherence to virtue.
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Mr. Wyerley admits to using 'honest art' by suggesting that Clarissa's silence would be taken as consent, highlighting the tension between sincerity and manipulation.
Characters to notice
- Clarissa Harlowe
The recipient of Mr. Wyerley's renewed address, praised for her virtue and steadfastness.
- Mr. Wyerley
The author of the letter, a former rejected suitor who renews his proposal after hearing of Clarissa's sufferings.
- Robert Lovelace
Referenced as the vile man who treated Clarissa basely and whose repentance is rejected.
Key passages
“I ever loved you; I ever must love you. Yet have I endeavoured to resign to my hard fate.”
I have always loved you and always will, though I tried to accept that I could not have you.
Mr. Wyerley expresses his enduring love and his failed attempts to move on.
“I pride myself, I say, to stand forth, and offer my fortune, and my life, at your devotion.”
I take pride in being the one to offer you my wealth and my life, despite your current lack of support.
Mr. Wyerley offers himself as Clarissa's protector in her time of need.