David Copperfield · Character

Clara Copperfield

David's gentle, beautiful mother who dies young.

minor

Also known as Clara, Miss Clarissa, Clarissa

First appearance: I Am Born

Clara Copperfield shows up with force in David Copperfield. The page is where that presence becomes real.

David's mother, a gentle and vulnerable young widow.

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In David Copperfield: David's mother, a gentle and vulnerable young widow. Later, in I Am Born: David's young, timid mother, widowed and…

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Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.

This is the story's dramatic climax because it presents the emotional peak of David's concealed grief and the…

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Clara Copperfield appears across 8 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

David Copperfield
David's mother, a gentle and vulnerable young widow.
I Am Born
David's young, timid mother, widowed and pregnant, described as a 'wax doll' by Miss Betsey.
II: I Observe
Defends her interactions with Mr. Murdstone to Peggotty, expresses affection for David.
IV: I Fall Into Disgrace
David's mother is emotionally fragile and powerless, weeping over his struggles but unable to intervene against the Murdstones.
My Holidays. Especially One Happy Afternoon
David's mother, who struggles to defend Mr. Murdstone's sternness while showing deep affection for David. She is seen suckling her new baby and singing.
I Have a Memorable Birthday
David's mother, who dies after a long illness, remembered by David as the young mother of his earliest impressions.
XIII: The Sequel of My Resolution
David's deceased mother appears in his memory as a fanciful picture that sustains him during his journey.
My Aunt Makes Up Her Mind About Me
Referenced as David's late mother, described by Betsey as an 'unfortunate baby' and by Miss Murdstone as a 'mere child.'

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