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Daniel Deronda, Chapter 45 summary

Chapter 45 of 71 · Book 6: Revelations · 16 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 45, Gwendolen attends Lady Mallinger’s musical party, meets Mirah, and begs Deronda not to abandon his efforts to help her become better. Her appeal sharpens his sense of competing obligations, while Grandcourt’s demand that she receive Lush civilly reinforces her fear and lack of freedom.

What happens

  1. The Grandcourts attend Lady Mallinger’s party, where Gwendolen searches for Deronda and feels disturbed by Lush’s presence.
  2. Mirah sings successfully with Klesmer accompanying her, and Deronda connects her performance with Mordecai’s suffering and ideals.
  3. Gwendolen meets Mirah and takes comfort in hearing that Deronda helps her out of compassion.
  4. After Lush moves away, Gwendolen begs Deronda to keep believing in her ability to improve.
  5. Deronda feels torn between Gwendolen’s dependence and the claims associated with Mordecai, then questions his own importance.
  6. During the drive home, Grandcourt orders Gwendolen to treat Lush civilly when he dines with them.

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In this chapter

DerondaGwendolenMirahGrandcourtMordecai

What to notice

Gwendolen makes her hope of improvement depend on Deronda’s confidence. This appeal burdens him with a responsibility he both feels and questions.

Quick check

What does Grandcourt demand during the drive home?

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