Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 295: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe explained
Clarissa writes a distraught letter to Anna Howe after her escape, expressing her shattered peace and sense of lost self, while inquiring after Anna's health and providing a new address for correspondence.
What happens
Clarissa writes a distraught letter to Anna Howe after her escape, expressing her shattered peace and sense of lost self, while inquiring after Anna's health and providing a new address for correspondence.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Rising action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This is the story's dramatic climax because it marks the emotional and psychological peak where Clarissa, desp…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Suffering and Redemption
Clarissa's lament over her 'lost self' and destroyed peace underscores her profound suffering and longing for redemption.
- Friendship and Loyalty
Clarissa's deep affection and reverence for Anna Howe highlight the theme of loyal friendship amid crisis.
Characters to notice
- Clarissa Harlowe
Writes in a state of mental distress, referring to her 'lost self' and destroyed peace.
- Anna Howe
The recipient; Clarissa reveres her as a pure and beloved friend and inquires after her health.
- Mrs. Rachel Clark
Mentioned as the contact for letters directed to Mr. Smith's glove-shop.
Key passages
“Once more have I escaped—But, alas! I, my best self , have not escaped!”
I have physically escaped again, but my true self—my virtue and peace—has not escaped harm.
Clarissa distinguishes her physical escape from the loss of her inner self.
“My peace is destroyed. My intellects are touched.”
My tranquility is gone, and my mind is affected.
Clarissa admits to mental instability following her ordeal.
