Daniel Deronda · Chapter
Chapter XVII explained
On a fine evening near the end of July, Deronda rows himself on the Thames, reflecting on his indecision about his future and his place in society.
What happens
On a fine evening near the end of July, Deronda rows himself on the Thames, reflecting on his indecision about his future and his place in society. He spots a young woman attempting to drown herself by wrapping her wet cloak around her. He rescues her, learns she is Mirah Lapidoth, a Jewish girl fleeing from a cruel past, and takes her to the Meyricks for safety.
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
In this chapter, the emotional and psychological peak occurs when Deronda receives Hans Meyrick’s letter, whic…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Sympathy and Moral Growth
Deronda's immediate compassion and decisive action to save Mirah reflect his deep moral sensitivity and capacity for sympathy.
- Identity and Self-Discovery
Deronda's contemplation of his own origins and his identification with Mirah's plight hint at his ongoing search for personal identity.
- Fate and Choice
The chance encounter on the river and Deronda's choice to intervene set the stage for a pivotal moment in both characters' lives.
Characters to notice
- Daniel Deronda
Rowing on the Thames, contemplative about his life and purpose; rescues Mirah from drowning.
- Mirah Lapidoth
Attempts suicide by drowning; rescued by Deronda; reveals she has nowhere to go and no family in England.
- Sir Hugo Mallinger
Mentioned as Deronda's guardian, puzzled by Deronda's indecision and contemplative nature.
- Mrs. Meyrick
Mentioned as the lady with daughters to whom Deronda plans to take Mirah for safety.
Key passages
“This is truth the poet sings, That a sorrow's crown of sorrow is remembering happier things.”
The greatest sorrow is remembering happier times.
Epigraph from Tennyson's 'Locksley Hall' sets a melancholic tone for the chapter.
“I will die before I will let any harm come to you.”
I would rather die than allow you to be harmed.
Deronda's solemn promise to Mirah, demonstrating his commitment to her safety.
“Perhaps my mother was like this one.”
Maybe my mother was in a similar situation.
Deronda's internal reflection connects Mirah's plight to his own unknown maternal history.
