Daniel Deronda, Chapter 24 summary

What happens

1. Gwendolen visits Sawyer’s Cottage with her mother and protests against its cramped rooms and their reduced circumstances.
2. At the rectory, Mr. Gascoigne explains the proposed position and Mrs. Mompert’s wish to interview Gwendolen.
3. The family’s kindness and Rex’s encouraging letter contrast with Gwendolen’s growing dread of work, scrutiny, and lost status.
4. Gwendolen withdraws from visits and household preparations, feeling unable to accept the life available to her.
5. She offers her mother her prospective earnings and asks her to sell most of her jewelry.
6. She keeps the turquoise necklace, wraps it in the torn handkerchief, and stores it with feelings she cannot clearly explain.

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What to notice

Gwendolen’s complaint makes dependence, rather than work alone, central to her distress. She fears surrendering control over her conduct and identity.

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