# Letter 78: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## What happens

Clarissa describes a tense confrontation with her family and Mr. Solmes, who is presented as a suitor. She resists their pressure, defends her principles, and argues against Solmes's character while hinting at her preference for Lovelace. The chapter highlights her isolation and the family's coercive tactics.

## Themes in this chapter

### Female Agency and Virtue

Clarissa asserts her right to refuse Solmes and defends her moral principles against family coercion.

### Family Obligation and Rebellion

Clarissa's defiance of her family's wishes highlights the conflict between duty and personal autonomy.

### Deception and Appearance vs. Reality

Solmes's fine appearance contrasts with his true character, and Clarissa exposes the family's manipulative tactics.

## Character check-ins

### Clarissa Harlowe

Narrates the confrontation, defends her virtue, and resists family pressure to accept Solmes.

### Mr. Solmes

Presented as a suitor; awkward and persistent, despite Clarissa's clear rejection.

### James Harlowe Jr.

Aggressively supports Solmes and berates Clarissa, showing his manipulative and controlling nature.

### Arabella Harlowe

Sides with James, taunts Clarissa, and participates in the family's pressure tactics.

### Antony Harlowe

Uncle who scolds Clarissa and defends the family's position against her.

### Dolly Hervey

Cousin who shows sympathy for Clarissa, weeping at her distress.

## Key lines

> Well, my dear, I am alive, and here! but how long I shall be either here, or alive, I cannot say.

Clarissa announces she is still alive and present, but uncertain of her future safety or survival.

_Opening line expressing her precarious state._

> Cowardice in a foe begets courage in one's self—I see that plainly now—yet perhaps, at bottom, the new-made bravo is a greater coward than the other.

Clarissa observes that her opponent's fear emboldens her, though she suspects the bravado may hide deeper cowardice.

_Reflection on power dynamics during confrontation._

> I love a virtuous character, as much in man as in woman. I think it is requisite, and as meritorious, in the one as in the other.

Clarissa values virtue equally in men and women, asserting it as essential for both genders.

_Clarissa's defense of moral standards._

## Links

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