Daniel Deronda, Chapter 53 summary

What happens

1. The Princess summons Deronda before her departure and directs him to family papers rather than offering more memories.
2. Deronda declares his wish to serve his Jewish people, while his mother attributes his choice to love for a Jewish woman.
3. He urges forgiveness toward his grandfather, but she insists that her father treats her as an instrument of his purposes.
4. Her fear of punishment brings an appeal for compassion, and Deronda embraces her.
5. She gives him her youthful portrait, defends her artistic calling, and questions him about the woman he loves.
6. The Princess ends their relationship with a final farewell, leaving Deronda grief-stricken and more deeply conscious of his commitments.

In this chapter

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