Daniel Deronda · Chapter
Chapter XXI explained
Gwendolen Harleth, facing financial ruin after her mother's losses, rejects the idea of becoming a governess and instead writes to Herr Klesmer for advice, hoping to pursue a career in music or performance.
What happens
Gwendolen Harleth, facing financial ruin after her mother's losses, rejects the idea of becoming a governess and instead writes to Herr Klesmer for advice, hoping to pursue a career in music or performance. She expresses frustration at her misfortunes, including her gambling losses at Leubronn, and asserts her determination to avoid a diminished life in Sawyer's Cottage.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and Privilege
Gwendolen's horror at the prospect of becoming a governess or living in Sawyer's Cottage highlights her attachment to her social status and the privileges of her rank.
Marriage and Gender Roles
Gwendolen's rejection of traditional female roles (governess, dependent daughter) and her turn to Klesmer for a career in music challenge the expected paths for women of her time.
Fate and Choice
Gwendolen's belief in her 'star' is bruised by recent misfortunes, yet she asserts her will to choose her own path rather than resign herself to Providence.
Characters to notice
- Gwendolen Harleth
Rejects becoming a governess, writes to Klesmer for career advice, and expresses anger over her family's financial ruin and her own gambling losses.
- Mrs. Davilow
Gwendolen's mother, who is distressed by the family's financial situation and fears Gwendolen's reaction to the prospect of becoming a governess.
- Klesmer
The musician to whom Gwendolen writes a letter requesting advice on her future course of action.
- Catherine Arrowpoint
Mentioned as having left a card at the Davilow residence; her family is at Quetcham, where Klesmer may be staying.
Key passages
“I would rather emigrate than be a governess.”
Gwendolen declares that she would prefer to leave the country entirely rather than take up a position as a governess.
This line underscores Gwendolen's fierce rejection of the diminished social standing associated with governessing.
“I shall do what is more befitting our rank and education.”
Gwendolen insists she will pursue a path that aligns with her social status and upbringing, rather than accept a menial position.
Reflects Gwendolen's pride and her determination to maintain her class identity despite financial ruin.