Who Gwendolen Harleth is
Gwendolen Harleth grows up at the centre of a loving household that usually gives way to her. Beautiful, proud and accustomed to attention, she expects charm to secure the future she wants. When her family loses its money, that confidence faces a test she cannot simply charm away.
What Gwendolen Harleth wants
Gwendolen wants a life of admiration and independence, without giving up the comfort she knows. She considers singing or acting, but Herr Klesmer tells her that artistic work requires training and discipline. Marriage to Grandcourt seems to offer security for herself, her mother and her sisters.
Gwendolen Harleth and the others in the story
Grandcourt's wealth attracts Gwendolen, and she believes she can manage him as she manages others. Mrs Glasher warns her about his existing relationship and children, but family pressures help draw her back toward marriage. Once married, Gwendolen finds that Grandcourt expects obedience and controls her through silence and small commands.
How Gwendolen Harleth changes
Daniel first unsettles Gwendolen when he watches her gambling and later quietly returns her pawned necklace. As her marriage brings fear and guilt, she turns to him for patient listening and moral advice. He encourages her to take an interest in others, while her pride begins to give way to remorse.
Questions
Who is Gwendolen Harleth?
Gwendolen Harleth is one of the two central figures in Daniel Deronda, a proud young woman whose family loses its wealth.
Why does Gwendolen marry Grandcourt?
She sees his wealth as a way to secure her position and help her mother and sisters. She also believes she can manage him.
Is Gwendolen in love with Daniel?
Their bond is presented as moral support rather than a romance. Gwendolen turns to Daniel because he listens and offers guidance when she feels afraid and ashamed.