Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 453: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained
Lovelace writes to Belford, expressing his anguish over Clarissa's declining health and his desperate wish for her recovery.
What happens
Lovelace writes to Belford, expressing his anguish over Clarissa's declining health and his desperate wish for her recovery. He reflects on his guilt, his admiration for her virtues, and his struggle to cope with remorse through forced levity.
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
Lovelace's intense remorse and desire for Clarissa's survival reflect themes of suffering and the possibility of redemption.
- Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Lovelace admits his levity masks deep sorrow, highlighting the contrast between outward gaiety and inner torment.
Characters to notice
- Robert Lovelace
Writes to Belford, expressing remorse and despair over Clarissa's condition.
- John Belford
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace accuses him of severe reflections and demands he keep Clarissa alive.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Lovelace praises her virtues and laments her impending death, calling her a paragon.
Key passages
“Set before her the sin of her preparation, as if she thought she could depart when she pleased.”
Lovelace urges Belford to convince Clarissa that preparing for death is sinful, as if she can choose to die at will.
Lovelace's desperate attempt to prevent Clarissa's death.
“I could love her with a purity that would draw on my own future, as well as ensure her temporal, happiness.”
Lovelace claims he could love Clarissa purely, securing both his future happiness and hers.
Lovelace's idealized vision of a reformed love.
“I am forced, as I have often said, to try to make myself laugh, that I may not cry.”
Lovelace explains that he uses laughter to suppress his tears and overwhelming grief.
Lovelace's coping mechanism for his remorse.
