Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 507: Mr. Belford, to Mr. James Harlowe, Jun. Esq. explained
This chapter contains the reading of Clarissa Harlowe's last will and testament, in which she forgives Lovelace, bequeaths her real estate to her father, provides for Mrs.
What happens
This chapter contains the reading of Clarissa Harlowe's last will and testament, in which she forgives Lovelace, bequeaths her real estate to her father, provides for Mrs. Norton, and establishes a charitable fund for the poor, while entrusting the management of her story and legacy to Mr. Belford and Miss Howe.
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 will reflects her spiritual redemption and forgiveness of Lovelace, framing her suffering as a path to eternal glory.
- Family Obligation and Rebellion
Clarissa's bequests to her father and family show a complex mix of duty and defiance, as she asserts her own moral authority.
Characters to notice
- Clarissa Harlowe
Testator; her will is read, expressing forgiveness and detailed bequests.
- John Belford
Executor of the will; tasked with copying and managing Clarissa's story.
- James Harlowe Jr.
Recipient of the letter; brother of Clarissa.
- Anna Howe
Mentioned as a confidante who knows Clarissa's heart; to receive a copy of the story.
- Mrs. Norton
Beneficiary of the Dairy-house apartments and manager of the charitable fund.
Key passages
“I do most sincerely forgive Mr. Lovelace the wrongs he has done me.”
Clarissa declares that she forgives Lovelace for all the harm he caused her.
Demonstrates Clarissa's Christian forgiveness and moral triumph.
“I give and bequeath all the real estates in or to which I have any claim or title by the said will, to my ever-honoured father, James Harlowe, Esq.”
Clarissa leaves all her inherited property to her father.
Shows her continued respect for her father despite family conflict.
