Daniel Deronda, Chapter 21 summary
Chapter 21 of 71 · Book 3: Maidens Choosing · 16 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 21, Gwendolen Harleth returns to Offendene and discovers that her family must depend on relatives and move into Sawyer’s Cottage. Her tenderness toward her mother gives way to anger at their reduced circumstances, and she rejects paid teaching before requesting Herr Klesmer’s advice about a plan she keeps private.
What happens
- The narrator describes ignorance as a destructive force, then shows Gwendolen’s miserable arrival and growing fear of poverty.
- Gwendolen embraces her distressed mother and promises to find a way to help.
- Mrs. Davilow explains that they must leave Offendene, depend on relatives, and live at Sawyer’s Cottage.
- Gwendolen blames others for her troubles and learns that Mr. Lassman loses their money through risky investments.
- She rejects two teaching positions, proposes selling jewelry, and asks whether Herr Klesmer is at Quetcham.
- She sends Klesmer a request for advice and anxiously considers whether he is available.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Gwendolen asserts control over her choices while depending on others for support. Her desire to help her mother remains tied to resistance against direction.
Quick check
Why does Gwendolen write to Herr Klesmer?
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