Love and Sacrifice

Where it surfaces

• IX

  Walter's confession of love and his awareness of its hopelessness underscore the theme of forbidden love and the sacrifice it entails.

• The Summerhouse Interview

  Walter's love for Laura forces him to sacrifice his position and leave Limmeridge House to protect her.

• Chapter XI

  Walter's love for Laura is marked by jealousy and despair, as he faces the prospect of her marriage to another man.

• Chapter XV

  Walter and Laura's restrained farewell demonstrates their unspoken love and the sacrifice required by social conventions; Walter resolves to leave to avoid further pain.

• Chapter II

  Laura's distress and her father's deathbed hopes for her marriage create a conflict between love, duty, and personal desire.

• I

  Laura's willingness to sacrifice her own happiness and confess her love for Hartright to Sir Percival, rather than deceive him.

• II

  Marian's devotion to Laura and her sacrifice of her own feelings; Laura's resigned acceptance of a marriage she does not want.

• V

  Laura's continued love for Walter and her sacrifice in marrying Sir Percival for duty are central to her emotional confession.

• Chapter VI

  Marian's selfless dedication to Laura, enduring insults and threats for her sake.

• I

  Walter dedicates his life, reputation, and safety to restore Laura's identity and place in the world.

• III

  Walter's love for Laura leads him to propose despite her lost fortune and uncertain future; Laura's joy in their union underscores the theme.

• VI

  Walter risks his life to save Laura, and his tender farewell to her sleeping form underscores his willingness to sacrifice everything for her.