Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 97: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained
Lovelace writes to Belford from St.
What happens
Lovelace writes to Belford from St. Alban's, exulting in his successful elopement with Clarissa. He revels in his triumph over her family, yet is troubled by her evident grief and lack of affection. He resolves to test her love and asserts his control over her situation.
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 Exposition.
- 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
- Power and Manipulation
Lovelace boasts of manipulating Clarissa's family and controlling her situation, viewing her as his conquest.
- Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Lovelace orchestrates the elopement to appear consensual, while internally doubting Clarissa's true feelings.
Characters to notice
- Robert Lovelace
Exultant and possessive after the elopement, but troubled by Clarissa's grief.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Retired to rest; her grief and reluctance trouble Lovelace.
- John Belford
Recipient of Lovelace's letter, confidant.
Key passages
“I knew that the whole stupid family were in a combination to do my business for me.”
I realized that Clarissa's foolish family were unwittingly helping me achieve my goal.
Lovelace's manipulative view of the Harlowe family.
“But did I say my joy was perfect?—O no!—It receives some abatement from my disgusted bride.”
Yet my happiness is not complete because my bride seems repulsed by me.
Lovelace's frustration with Clarissa's lack of affection.
