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Chapter 65
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
After squandering the money Mirah gave him during their last interaction, Lapidoth decides to approach her again, hoping to benefit from her generosity and support. After listening for Mirah’s singing outside her home, he enters the house once he hears she is present. Mordecai, though frail, assumes authority when Lapidoth arrives, instructing Mirah to let him handle the situation. When their father enters, he attempts to evoke pity, returning Mirah’s empty purse and delivering a speech about his helplessness and supposed remorse. Mordecai responds with a stern and unforgiving condemnation. He recounts Lapidoth’s previous betrayals, making it clear that while they will offer him food and shelter, he will never regain their trust.
Lapidoth’s return exposes his unwillingness to change. He sees Mirah as a source of financial support rather than as a daughter he has wronged. Listening outside her home before entering suggests that he is calculating his approach, looking for the best way to manipulate the situation. Mordecai’s authority in this moment contrasts with Lapidoth’s desperation—while physically weak, Mordecai is firm in his judgment, refusing to let their father’s presence disrupt Mirah’s new life.
Themes
Moved to tears, Lapidoth attempts to manipulate his children, evoking memories of the past and claiming he deserves to die destitute. Mirah, torn by her love and duty as a daughter, pleads for him to stay and reform his ways. Despite his firm stance, Mordecai does not forbid Lapidoth from staying, so Mirah leads their father to a room she designates as his. Although Lapidoth seems momentarily comforted by Mirah’s care, his thoughts soon return to selfish scheming. He wonders about her financial situation and revisits memories of gambling, showing no true repentance. For Mordecai and Mirah, the arrival of their father brings a painful reminder of their family’s broken past, and while they extend him shelter, it is clear that his presence will challenge their resolve and test their patience.
Lapidoth’s display of remorse is performative rather than genuine. He returns Mirah’s empty purse, but his speech about helplessness and regret is another attempt to gain sympathy. Mirah’s torn response shows the lingering pull of family obligation, but she does not let emotion override her judgment. She allows him to stay, but only under conditions that prevent him from taking advantage of her kindness. His thoughts, however, immediately turn back to his own gain, proving that he has learned nothing from his past failures.
Themes
