Daniel Deronda · Chapter
LIX explained
Sir Hugo Mallinger arrives in Genoa and discusses Grandcourt's will with Deronda, revealing that Grandcourt left his estates to his illegitimate son by Mrs.
What happens
Sir Hugo Mallinger arrives in Genoa and discusses Grandcourt's will with Deronda, revealing that Grandcourt left his estates to his illegitimate son by Mrs. Glasher and only a small provision for Gwendolen. Deronda shares the news of his Jewish heritage with Sir Hugo, who cautions him against eccentricity.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and Privilege
Grandcourt's will reflects class and gender hierarchies, leaving the bulk of his estate to his illegitimate son while providing minimally for his widow.
Identity and Self-Discovery
Deronda reveals his Jewish heritage to Sir Hugo, marking a pivotal moment in his self-understanding and future path.
Sympathy and Moral Growth
Deronda reflects on Sir Hugo's past actions with lenience, showing his capacity for forgiveness and moral maturity.
Characters to notice
- Daniel Deronda
Deronda meets Sir Hugo at the station, discusses Grandcourt's will and his own Jewish heritage, feeling gratitude and conflict over Sir Hugo's past concealment.
- Sir Hugo Mallinger
Sir Hugo arrives in Genoa, reveals details of Grandcourt's will, and expresses concern about Deronda's potential eccentricities after learning of his Jewish heritage.
- Gwendolen Harleth
Mentioned as the widow of Grandcourt, now calmer after his death, with her uncle and mother caring for her; she is left with a small provision.
- Henleigh Grandcourt
Deceased; his will is discussed, leaving estates to his illegitimate son and a small income to Gwendolen.
- Mrs. Glasher
Mentioned as the mother of Grandcourt's illegitimate son, who is to inherit the estates.
- Lush
Mentioned as having hinted that Gwendolen was aware of Grandcourt's secret family and the will's provisions.
Key passages
“I count myself in nothing else so happy As in a soul remembering my good friends.”
I consider myself most fortunate in having a heart that remembers my dear friends.
Opening epigraph from Shakespeare, setting a tone of gratitude and reflection on friendship.
“Ignorant kindness may have the effect of cruelty; but to be angry with it as if it were direct cruelty would be an ignorant un kindness”
Well-meaning but uninformed actions can hurt, but reacting with anger as if they were intentionally cruel is itself a form of unkindness.
Narrator's reflection on Deronda's forgiving nature toward Sir Hugo's past concealment.