Clarissa · Character

Polly Horton

Another of Mrs. Sinclair's women, whose practical caution about the household's danger reveals how much the schemers have to lose.

supporting

Also known as Polly Horton, Mary Horton, Polly

First appearance: clarissa

As a supporting figure in Clarissa, Polly Horton is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.

Another niece; Clarissa finds her and Sally's behavior suspicious and overly familiar with Lovelace.

In the storyLetter 157: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss HoweOpen this moment free

See Polly Horton in Letter 157: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe Book page

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Polly Horton belongs to the small circle of women who keep Mrs. Sinclair's house running and who watch Clarissa with a mixture of curiosity and self-interest. She is the one who argues that a woman with such a handle against them would never leave if she could — a cold assessment that shows the women know exactly what they are party to. Her voice in the deliberations over locks, bolts, and vigilance makes the house feel less like a home than a siege.

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See Polly Horton in clarissa

Character Web

21 connections

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Relationship types

Other

Character groups

Minor characters and background figures
Major characters and antagonists

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book.

Setup
Escalation
Breaking point
Aftermath
Closing

This is the story's dramatic climax because it marks the emotional and psychological peak where Clarissa, desp…

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In the story

Polly Horton appears across 13 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

Letter 157: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe
Another niece; Clarissa finds her and Sally's behavior suspicious and overly familiar with Lovelace.
Letter 159: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Another of Mrs. Sinclair's nieces; mentioned as part of the household.
Letter 194: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Has asked Clarissa's advice on a courtship matter and will accompany them to the play, instructed where to weep.
Letter 200: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe
Accompanied Clarissa and Lovelace to the play; mentioned as being moved by the tragedy.
Letter 201: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Visits Clarissa and reports her emotional state to Lovelace.
Letter 210: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
One of the nymphs attending the airing; makes remarks about the scenery.
Letter 211: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Mentioned as part of the household chorus that expresses relief and admiration for Lovelace and Clarissa.
Letter 226: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Mentioned alongside Sally as having loved Lovelace and now promoting competitorship.
Letter 276: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Polly Horton is present at the street door, attempting to prevent Clarissa's escape.
Letter 277: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Another woman at the brothel; joins Sally in criticizing Lovelace's handling of Clarissa.
Letter 281: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Another accomplice who initially joins the uproar but later admits the lady has been much injured.
Letter 336: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Implicated with Sally in attempting to take Clarissa's possessions.
Letter 499: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Present at Sinclair's bedside among the other prostitutes.

Chapter companion notes

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See Polly Horton in clarissa

See Polly Horton in Letter 157: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe