Daniel Deronda · Chapter
LVI explained
Gwendolen confesses to Deronda her guilt and the events surrounding Grandcourt's death, revealing her inner turmoil, her murderous thoughts, and her desperate need for absolution.
What happens
Gwendolen confesses to Deronda her guilt and the events surrounding Grandcourt's death, revealing her inner turmoil, her murderous thoughts, and her desperate need for absolution. Deronda, though deeply troubled, offers his support and promises not to forsake her.
Themes in this chapter
Sympathy and Moral Growth
Gwendolen's confession and Deronda's compassionate response highlight the theme of moral struggle and the possibility of redemption through sympathy.
Power and Control
Gwendolen's feelings of helplessness and her murderous thoughts reflect the dynamics of power and control in her marriage.
Characters to notice
- Gwendolen Harleth
Confesses her guilt and the horror of Grandcourt's death, describing her inner conflict and murderous wishes.
- Daniel Deronda
Listens to Gwendolen's confession with deep distress, offering his support and promising not to forsake her.
Key passages
“You know I am a guilty woman?”
Gwendolen declares herself guilty, seeking Deronda's understanding.
This marks the beginning of her confession about Grandcourt's death.
“His face will not be seen above the water again”
Gwendolen states that Grandcourt is dead and his face will not be seen again.
She confirms the drowning and her haunting vision of his dead face.
“I did, I did kill him in my thoughts.”
Gwendolen admits to having murderous wishes and killing Grandcourt in her imagination.
She confesses the depth of her inner conflict and guilt.