# Letter 481: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq. explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## What happens

Mr. Belford describes the death of Clarissa Harlowe, detailing her final moments, her forgiveness of Lovelace, and her peaceful, pious end. He reflects on her virtues and the sorrow of those present.

## Themes in this chapter

### Suffering and Redemption

Clarissa's death is portrayed as a redemptive end to her suffering, with her forgiveness and hope for eternal happiness.

### Female Agency and Virtue

Clarissa's virtuous life and dignified death exemplify her agency and moral strength.

## Character check-ins

### Clarissa Harlowe

Dies peacefully at 6:40 PM, forgiving Lovelace and blessing all present.

### John Belford

Writes the account of Clarissa's death, deeply grieving and moved by her piety.

### Colonel Morden

Kneels beside Clarissa's bed, weeping, and receives her final blessings.

### Mrs. Lovick

Sits by the bed, overwhelmed with grief, and announces Belford's arrival.

### Mrs. Smith

Kneels at the bed's foot, weeping and praying during Clarissa's final moments.

## Key lines

> And thus died Miss Clarissa Harlowe, in the blossom of her youth and beauty: and who, her tender years considered, had not left behind her her superior in extensive knowledge and watchful prudence; nor hardly her equal for unblemished virtue, exemplary piety, sweetness of manners, discreet generosity, and true Christian charity.

Clarissa Harlowe died young and beautiful, unmatched in knowledge, prudence, virtue, piety, kindness, generosity, and Christian charity.

_Belford's eulogy for Clarissa, summarizing her exceptional qualities._

> Do you, Sir, tell your friend that I forgive him!—And I pray to God to forgive him!

Tell Lovelace that I forgive him and pray God forgives him too.

_Clarissa's final message of forgiveness to Lovelace._

## Links

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