# Chapter XVII explained — Daniel Deronda

> Chapter companion for Daniel Deronda by George Eliot.

## What happens

On a fine evening near the end of July, Deronda rows himself on the Thames, reflecting on his indecision about his future and his place in society. He spots a young woman attempting to drown herself by wrapping her wet cloak around her. He rescues her, learns she is Mirah Lapidoth, a Jewish girl fleeing from a cruel past, and takes her to the Meyricks for safety.

## Themes in this chapter

### Sympathy and Moral Growth

Deronda's immediate compassion and decisive action to save Mirah reflect his deep moral sensitivity and capacity for sympathy.

### Identity and Self-Discovery

Deronda's contemplation of his own origins and his identification with Mirah's plight hint at his ongoing search for personal identity.

### Fate and Choice

The chance encounter on the river and Deronda's choice to intervene set the stage for a pivotal moment in both characters' lives.

## Character check-ins

### Daniel Deronda

Rowing on the Thames, contemplative about his life and purpose; rescues Mirah from drowning.

### Mirah Lapidoth

Attempts suicide by drowning; rescued by Deronda; reveals she has nowhere to go and no family in England.

### Sir Hugo Mallinger

Mentioned as Deronda's guardian, puzzled by Deronda's indecision and contemplative nature.

### Mrs. Meyrick

Mentioned as the lady with daughters to whom Deronda plans to take Mirah for safety.

## Key lines

> This is truth the poet sings, That a sorrow's crown of sorrow is remembering happier things.

The greatest sorrow is remembering happier times.

_Epigraph from Tennyson's 'Locksley Hall' sets a melancholic tone for the chapter._

> I will die before I will let any harm come to you.

I would rather die than allow you to be harmed.

_Deronda's solemn promise to Mirah, demonstrating his commitment to her safety._

> Perhaps my mother was like this one.

Maybe my mother was in a similar situation.

_Deronda's internal reflection connects Mirah's plight to his own unknown maternal history._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/daniel_deronda_se/chapters/xvii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/daniel_deronda_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/daniel_deronda_se/chapters