Clarissa

Definition

Clarissa is a novel by Samuel Richardson, first published in 1748, which is often considered one of the earliest and most significant examples of the epistolary novel. The story revolves around the tragic fate of Clarissa Harlowe, a young woman whose strong moral convictions and desire for autonomy lead her into conflict with her family and suitor, Robert Lovelace. The novel not only explores themes of virtue, autonomy, and social constraints but also reflects the tensions between rationalism and empiricism prevalent in the 18th century.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Clarissa' is notable for its deep psychological insight into the characters, particularly Clarissa's inner thoughts and moral struggles as she faces external pressures.
2. The novel is structured as a series of letters exchanged between characters, allowing readers to experience their emotions and perspectives directly.
3. Richardson's portrayal of Clarissa as a virtuous heroine highlights the conflict between individual desires and societal expectations in 18th-century England.
4. The tension between rationalism and empiricism is embodied in the characters’ conflicting approaches to understanding their world, especially seen in Lovelace's manipulations versus Clarissa's moral clarity.
5. Clarissa's tragic fate serves as a critique of the societal norms that restrict women's autonomy and choice during this period.

Review Questions

• How does 'Clarissa' reflect the tensions between rationalism and empiricism in its character interactions?
  • 'Clarissa' illustrates the clash between rationalism and empiricism through its characters' approaches to knowledge and understanding. Lovelace represents a more manipulative rationalism, using his intellect to deceive Clarissa, while Clarissa embodies an empirical perspective grounded in her emotional experiences and moral convictions. This conflict drives the narrative forward, showcasing how differing worldviews affect personal relationships and outcomes.
• Discuss the significance of the epistolary format in 'Clarissa' and how it enhances the reader's understanding of character development.
  • 'Clarissa's' epistolary format plays a crucial role in character development by providing an intimate glimpse into the characters' thoughts, feelings, and motivations through their letters. This structure allows readers to witness Clarissa’s internal struggles as well as her interactions with others, creating a more nuanced understanding of her character. By sharing multiple perspectives through correspondence, Richardson builds empathy for Clarissa’s plight while highlighting the complexities of human relationships.
• Evaluate how 'Clarissa' critiques societal norms regarding women's autonomy and moral choice during its time period.
  • 'Clarissa' serves as a powerful critique of 18th-century societal norms that restricted women's autonomy. Through Clarissa's tragic story, Richardson exposes how rigid social structures limit female agency and impose moral dilemmas that often lead to suffering. The novel encourages readers to reflect on the consequences of these societal expectations and raises questions about individual rights versus familial duties, ultimately advocating for greater recognition of women's choices in both personal and societal contexts.

Related terms

Epistolary Novel: A narrative format where the story is told through a series of letters, diary entries, or other documents, allowing for multiple perspectives and an intimate connection to characters.

Sentimentalism: An 18th-century literary movement that emphasized emotional experiences and the importance of feelings over reason, often focusing on themes of love and moral integrity.

Moral Philosophy: The study of what is right and wrong, which plays a crucial role in 'Clarissa' as the characters navigate complex ethical dilemmas related to personal choice and societal expectations.