Daniel Deronda, Chapter 39 summary
Chapter 39 of 71 · Book 5: Mordecai · 15 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 39, Julius Klesmer hears Mirah sing, recognizes her musicianship, and invites her to perform at his house, opening a practical route toward earning her living. The Meyricks celebrate and debate her concert dress, while Mirah firmly asserts her Jewish identity and Hans reads her kindness as encouragement.
What happens
- Klesmer visits the Meyricks and listens to Mirah sing while her anxious friends struggle to read his response.
- He praises her musicianship, recommends small private audiences, and offers a concert invitation and further professional guidance.
- Klesmer also invites Mab, then privately assures Mrs. Meyrick that Mirah can earn money if her voice holds out.
- The household celebrates, and Mirah explains why performing before knowledgeable listeners makes her feel safe.
- Hans arrives, questions Mirah’s plain dress, and tries to minimize the Jewish identity she insists belongs to her.
- Hans recommends a new dress, admits inventing his Berenice scene, and finds romantic encouragement in Mirah’s friendly words.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Mirah rejects Hans’s attempt to make her Jewish identity irrelevant. Her clear self-understanding contrasts with his desire to see her chiefly through his affection.
Quick check
What performance setting does Klesmer recommend for Mirah?
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