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Chapter 60
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
Hans arrives home, newspapers in hand, to say that Grandcourt has drowned in Italy and that Daniel was present at the scene. As he shares the information with his family, Hans makes lighthearted and irreverent comments about the situation, joking that Grandcourt’s death is convenient, and that Gwendolen is now free to marry someone else. His words shock Mirah, who responds with unexpected anger, rebuking Hans for his flippant attitude and implying that Daniel’s involvement with Gwendolen could be a great misfortune, especially if it distances him from her brother, Mordecai. Hans quickly apologizes, but Mirah remains visibly disturbed, her emotions revealing a deep-seated anxiety about Daniel’s future and her own place in his life.
Hans’s reaction to Grandcourt’s death exposes his inability to take grave matters seriously, especially when they involve Daniel. His jokes reflect not just his irreverence but his lack of emotional depth when it comes to understanding the weight of Daniel’s involvement in Gwendolen’s life. Mirah’s anger signals something deeper than moral disapproval—it reveals her growing anxiety about Daniel’s future. Her sharp response suggests that she sees Gwendolen as a real threat, not just in terms of social entanglements but as someone who could pull Daniel away from the path he is meant to follow.
Themes
Shortly after, Mirah leaves for home, and Hans walks with her. He now realizes that Mirah’s intense reaction to Gwendolen’s situation means she has feelings for Daniel. Though jealous, Hans finds some consolation in believing that if Daniel loves someone else, Mirah might eventually turn to him. As they arrive at her home, Mirah unexpectedly invites Hans inside to see Mordecai. Hans, interpreting this as forgiveness, clings to a fragile hope that he might still have a place in Mirah’s heart.
Hans misreads Mirah’s emotional reaction, interpreting it as a sign that she will eventually turn to him if Daniel chooses someone else. His jealousy blinds him to the reality of Mirah’s feelings, making him grasp at whatever small hope he can find. Her unexpected invitation to see Mordecai feels to him like an opening, but his optimism contrasts with her own uncertainty. She is not offering reassurance—she is seeking it, trying to steady herself in a moment of emotional turmoil.
Themes
Inside, they find Mordecai elated, holding a letter from Daniel, who promises to return soon. His happiness contrasts with Mirah’s inner turmoil, as she quietly withdraws to compose herself. Alone, she wrestles with her emotions, realizing that what she feels for Daniel is not just gratitude but love, which is now tainted by jealousy and despair. Though she tries to rationalize her pain, believing that his future with Gwendolen is inevitable, the depth of her feelings overwhelms her.
Mordecai’s joy at Daniel’s letter stands in stark contrast to Mirah’s inner conflict. His faith in Daniel’s return is absolute, leaving no room for doubt or insecurity. However, Mirah withdraws, struggling with the realization that her feelings for Daniel go beyond gratitude. While Mordecai sees Daniel’s path as predetermined, Mirah is beginning to recognize that personal desires and emotions may complicate what once seemed clear.
Themes
