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Summary
Themes
Key
LitCharts assigns a color and icon to each theme in Daniel Deronda, which you can use to track the themes throughout the work.
Identity and Self-Discovery
Judaism and Zionism
Marriage, Gender, and Control
Familial Duty
Wealth and Social Class
Summary
Analysis
Gwendolen Harleth, a young woman of striking beauty and poise, draws the attention of a young man named Daniel Deronda in a crowded gambling hall in Leubronn, Germany. Unlike the other players, whose blank focus reveals their obsession with the game, Gwendolen’s confident demeanor and sharp gaze make her stand out. She appears to enjoy the excitement of gambling more than the winnings, but Daniel’s intense scrutiny unsettles her. She perceives his gaze as judgmental, which fuels her determination to keep playing, even as her luck begins to fail. Gwendolen bets recklessly, losing the pile of money she had confidently amassed. Though frustrated, she maintains her composure, turning away from the table with her head held high. Before departing, she meets Daniel’s gaze directly and gives him a look that is equal parts defiant and curious.
Gwendolen’s introduction in the gambling hall immediately establishes her as a figure of control and charisma, standing out against the more mechanical obsession of the other players. Her sharp gaze and confident demeanor show her determination to dominate her environment, even in a morally ambiguous space such as a gambling hall. Daniel’s silent scrutiny disrupts her control, presenting her with a challenge she cannot directly counter. Her increasing recklessness as she continues betting demonstrates her defiance but also hints at the fragility beneath her confident exterior.
Themes
Later that evening, Gwendolen appears at a social gathering with her chaperone, Madame von Langen. Dressed in a stunning green and silver gown, she attracts admiration and gossip for her bold, theatrical appearance. Her striking features and confident manner spark comments about her “serpent-like” grace and beauty. Despite the attention she receives, Gwendolen’s thoughts remain on Daniel.
Gwendolen’s appearance at the social gathering reinforces her theatricality and her desire to command attention through her presence. The admiration she receives, mixed with gossip about her “serpent-like” qualities, positions her as both alluring and dangerous.
Themes
When she asks about him, Gwendolen learns his name is Daniel Deronda, a man closely connected to someone named Sir Hugo Mallinger, with whom she is familiar. Daniel intrigues Gwendolen, as she finds his serious nature different from the young men she usually encounters. Although Gwendolen wants to speak with Daniel, they do not meet that night because her plans abruptly change after a letter arrives asking that she return home.
Learning about Daniel’s connection to Sir Hugo Mallinger deepens Gwendolen’s curiosity, as she begins to view Daniel not just as a critic of her behavior but as someone tied to a world she partially understands. Her desire to speak with him reveals an evolving interest in exploring what he represents. Meanwhile, the arrival of the letter signals an impending change in her circumstances, hinting at challenges that will force her to reevaluate her priorities.
Themes
