Daniel Deronda, Chapter 44 summary
Chapter 44 of 71 · Book 6: Revelations · 15 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 44, Gwendolen tries to improve herself through reading while concealing her unhappy marriage, then visits her family before leaving for town and gives money for her sisters. Her warmer feelings toward her family contrast with Grandcourt’s control, while his supposed visit to Gadsmere sharpens her jealousy, remorse, and fear of exposure.
What happens
- Gwendolen thinks often of Deronda and samples difficult books, hoping to raise her understanding toward his.
- Grandcourt restricts contact with her family, while she maintains the appearance of a satisfied wife.
- Visiting Offendene without her husband, Gwendolen announces their departure for town and hears her uncle urge a political career for Grandcourt.
- Mrs. Davilow describes a possible new home, and Gwendolen privately gives her thirty pounds for the girls.
- Gwendolen believes Grandcourt visits Gadsmere and struggles with jealousy toward people whose situation also causes her remorse.
- Grandcourt detects and exaggerates her inward opposition, taking satisfaction in overcoming it.
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In this chapter
What to notice
The sentence identifies control as Grandcourt’s pleasure. It also distinguishes his awareness of opposition from any understanding of Gwendolen’s complex feelings.
Quick check
What does Gwendolen ask her mother to do with the thirty pounds?
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