Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 438: Miss Cl. Harlowe, to Alex. Wyerley, Esq. explained
Clarissa responds to Mr.
What happens
Clarissa responds to Mr. Wyerley's letter of proposal, thanking him for his generosity but reiterating her preference for the single life. She reflects on the family pressures and fatal circumstances that led to her current situation, and gently advises him to cultivate virtue for his own sake. She dismisses his vow not to marry while she lives, implying her death is near.
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
- Female Agency and Virtue
Clarissa asserts her choice of the single life and her moral independence, despite family pressures and societal expectations.
- Family Obligation and Rebellion
Clarissa alludes to the 'fatality' and family impulsion that prevented her from choosing her own path, highlighting the conflict between duty and personal will.
Characters to notice
- Clarissa Harlowe
Writes to Mr. Wyerley, thanking him for his offer but reaffirming her choice of the single life and reflecting on the fatal family pressures that shaped her fate.
- Mr. Wyerley
Recipient of Clarissa's letter; she acknowledges his generous proposal and advises him to cultivate virtue.
Key passages
“At the time you distinguished me by your favourable opinion, I told you, Sir, that my choice was the single life. And most truly did I tell you so.”
When you first showed interest in me, I honestly said I preferred to remain unmarried.
Clarissa reaffirms her longstanding preference for the single life, emphasizing her sincerity.
“But there was a kind of fatality by which our whole family was impelled, as I may say; and which none of us were permitted to avoid.”
Our family was driven by an unavoidable fate that none of us could escape.
Clarissa attributes the tragic turn of events to an inescapable family destiny.
“since a few, a very few days, will convince you, that I am got above all human dependence; and that there is no need of that protection and favour, which you so generously offer”
In just a few days you will see that I am beyond all earthly needs and no longer require your protection.
Clarissa hints at her impending death, implying she will soon be free from all worldly concerns.
