Clarissa

Definition

Clarissa is the central character in Samuel Richardson's epistolary novel, 'Clarissa, or the History of a Young Lady,' published in 1748. The novel tells the story of her tragic fate and her struggle against societal expectations and personal desires. Clarissa's character embodies themes of virtue, autonomy, and the consequences of societal pressures, making her a pivotal figure in the development of the novel's narrative structure and emotional depth.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Clarissa's full name is Clarissa Harlowe, and she comes from a wealthy but morally conflicted family that seeks to control her choices.
2. The novel is structured through letters exchanged between Clarissa and other characters, allowing readers to witness her internal struggles and interactions directly.
3. Clarissa's refusal to marry the man her family has chosen for her highlights her quest for personal autonomy and the conflict between individual desires and social expectations.
4. The character of Lovelace serves as a foil to Clarissa; his manipulative behavior contrasts sharply with her virtue and integrity, ultimately leading to her tragic demise.
5. Clarissa's story is considered one of the first modern psychological novels, delving deeply into her thoughts, feelings, and moral dilemmas as she faces betrayal and societal pressure.

Review Questions

• How does Clarissa's character illustrate the themes of virtue and autonomy in Richardson's epistolary novel?
  • Clarissa exemplifies virtue through her steadfast commitment to her moral principles, even when faced with immense pressure from her family and society. Her desire for autonomy is portrayed through her resistance to arranged marriage and societal expectations. This tension between her inner strength and external forces shapes the narrative, illustrating how societal norms can impact individual choices.
• In what ways does Richardson's use of the epistolary form enhance our understanding of Clarissa as a character?
  • The epistolary form allows readers to experience Clarissa's inner thoughts and emotions intimately through her letters. This narrative technique provides multiple perspectives on her situation, deepening our understanding of her struggles against manipulation by Lovelace and her family's constraints. It also emphasizes the isolation she feels despite being surrounded by people who claim to care for her.
• Evaluate how Clarissa's tragic fate serves as a commentary on societal norms regarding women in the 18th century.
  • Clarissa's tragic fate highlights the harsh realities faced by women in the 18th century, where social norms dictated their roles and limited their choices. Her struggle against coercion illustrates the broader implications of gender inequality during this period. By examining how Clarissa's virtue ultimately leads to her downfall, Richardson critiques societal expectations that prioritize male power over female autonomy, sparking discussions about women's rights that resonate even today.

Related terms

Epistolary Novel: A genre of literature that uses letters, diary entries, or other forms of correspondence to tell a story, allowing for multiple perspectives and deeper insight into characters' thoughts.

Samuel Richardson: An English novelist known for his pioneering work in the epistolary form, particularly with novels like 'Pamela' and 'Clarissa,' which explore themes of morality, virtue, and social class.

Social Commentary: The use of literary works to critique societal norms and values, often highlighting issues like gender roles, class struggles, and moral dilemmas faced by individuals.