# Chapter XXI explained — Daniel Deronda

> Chapter companion for Daniel Deronda by George Eliot.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

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