Summary, “Clarissa: Or the History of a Young Lady” by Samuel Richardson in 5 Minutes - Book Review

"Clarissa: Or the History of a Young Lady" is an epistolary novel written by Samuel Richardson, first published in 1748. It is considered one of the longest novels in the English language, consisting of approximately 1 million words across nine volumes. The novel tells the tragic story of a virtuous and beautiful young woman named Clarissa Harlowe, who is from a respectable family. Clarissa's family has plans for her to marry a wealthy and titled man named Roger Solmes, but she refuses due to his odious character. Instead, Clarissa falls in love with Robert Lovelace, a charming but unscrupulous rake who pursues her relentlessly. The plot revolves around the attempts of Clarissa to maintain her virtue and independence in the face of societal pressure and Lovelace's manipulations. The novel is notable for its exploration of the position of women in 18th-century society, the conflict between individual desires and social expectations, and the consequences of moral choices. "Clarissa" is also celebrated for its detailed psychological characterization and its exploration of the complexities of human relationships. The novel has had a significant influence on subsequent literature, particularly in the development of the novel as a form of literary expression.