Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 436: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe explained
Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, detailing Mr.
What happens
Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, detailing Mr. Brand's report, her sister's proposals for her to go abroad or prosecute Lovelace, and the harsh letters from her uncle Antony and sister. She mentions Dr. Lewen's letter and her reply, her difficulties avoiding Lovelace, and her cousin Morden's arrival to support her. She describes a sudden faintness but recovers, and encloses a letter from Mr. Wyerley, reflecting on her past refusal of him.
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 Falling 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 physical and emotional suffering is evident, yet she expresses hope for happiness and a calm end.
- Family Obligation and Rebellion
Clarissa faces pressure from her family to go abroad or prosecute Lovelace, while she seeks her own path.
Characters to notice
- Clarissa Harlowe
Writes to Anna Howe, describing her illness, family pressures, and cousin Morden's arrival.
- Anna Howe
Recipient of Clarissa's letter; Clarissa urges her to marry Mr. Hickman.
- Mr. Brand
His report is mentioned as a source of family conflict.
- Arabella Harlowe
Proposes that Clarissa go abroad or prosecute Lovelace.
- Antony Harlowe
Sent a severe letter to Clarissa.
- Colonel Morden
Has arrived and is ready to take Clarissa's part with her relations.
- Dr. Lewen
His letter and Clarissa's reply are enclosed.
- Mr. Wyerley
Sent a surprising letter to Clarissa, which she encloses.
Key passages
“I am very ill—I must drop my pen—a sudden faintness overspreads my heart—excuse my crooked writing!—Adieu, my dear!—Adieu!”
Clarissa is overcome by a sudden faintness and must stop writing, apologizing for the shaky handwriting.
Illustrates Clarissa's declining health and emotional strain.
“I shall be happy. Nay, I am more so already than of late I thought I could ever be in this life.—Yet how this body clings!—How it encumbers!”
Clarissa feels a sense of happiness and peace despite her physical suffering, which she sees as a burden.
Highlights Clarissa's spiritual resignation and the theme of suffering and redemption.
