# XXXII explained — Daniel Deronda

> Chapter companion for Daniel Deronda by George Eliot.

## What happens

Deronda reflects on his feelings for Mirah and resolves to keep his distance to avoid complicating her life, while also considering the search for her family. He returns to town and reports to Sir Hugo about Grandcourt's disposition regarding the estate, and Sir Hugo teases him about flirting. Deronda visits Mrs. Meyrick's home, where Mirah is thriving.

## Themes in this chapter

### Identity and Self-Discovery

Deronda grapples with his own feelings and his role as Mirah's guardian, questioning his identity and responsibilities.

### Sympathy and Moral Growth

Deronda's protective concern for Mirah and his desire to avoid harming her peace reflect his moral growth and capacity for sympathy.

### Jewish Heritage and Nationalism

Mirah's Jewish faith and Deronda's consideration of her 'strong native bias' highlight themes of heritage and religious identity.

## Character check-ins

### Daniel Deronda

Resolves to avoid falling in love with Mirah and to keep his distance; reports to Sir Hugo about Grandcourt; visits Mrs. Meyrick's.

### Mirah Lapidoth

Living with the Meyricks, content and grateful; her singing voice is praised; she is anxious to work.

### Sir Hugo Mallinger

Teases Deronda about flirting and asks about Grandcourt's bride; wants Deronda to visit at Christmas.

### Henleigh Grandcourt

Deronda has lodged in his mind an understanding about giving up a prospect for fifty thousand pounds; he is inclined to keep up friendly communications.

### Mrs. Meyrick

Writes to Deronda about Mirah's well-being; describes the family's fondness for Mirah.

### Hans Meyrick

Deronda worries that Hans might upset Mirah's situation; Hans is planning to get a studio in London.

## Key lines

> I would as soon hold out my finger to be bitten off as set about spoiling her peace

I would rather suffer harm than disturb her tranquility.

_Deronda's strong resolve not to disrupt Mirah's happiness._

> What should we all do without the calendar, when we want to put off a disagreeable duty?

The calendar is a convenient tool for postponing unpleasant tasks.

_Narrator's ironic observation on human procrastination._

> You are always looking tenderly at the women, and talking to them in a Jesuitical way.

You always gaze at women with affection and speak to them in a subtly persuasive manner.

_Sir Hugo teasing Deronda about his perceived flirtatious behavior._

## Links

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