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Chapter 67
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
Spurred by Hans’s assurance of Mirah’s jealousy, Daniel arrives at Mordecai’s lodgings determined to confess his love. His growing affection for Mirah fuels his resolve, and he eagerly anticipates a private conversation with her. Meanwhile, Lapidoth, restless and scheming, struggles with his compulsive gambling desires. Unable to access Mirah’s safeguarded money, he eyes Daniel’s ring as a quick means to make money. Succumbing to temptation, he silently steals it and leaves the house, intending to sell it and flee.
Daniel’s determination to confess his love for Mirah marks a shift in his priorities. Until now, he has been cautious, unsure of how personal desire fits into the responsibilities he has taken on. Hans’s words have planted the idea that Mirah’s feelings may already align with his own, giving him the confidence to act. Meanwhile, Lapidoth’s presence remains a disruptive force. His restless scheming shows that he is incapable of adapting to a life where manipulation no longer serves him.
Themes
Unaware of the theft, Daniel and Mordecai continue their studies until Mirah arrives. Daniel offers to walk her to Mrs. Meyrick’s, but as he prepares, he notices the missing ring. His initial assumption that it has fallen is shattered when Mirah notices Lapidoth is missing. Realizing what has happened, Mirah searches for Lapidoth but finds only the devastating confirmation of his betrayal. In this moment of shared sorrow, Daniel seizes the opportunity to confess his love. He declares his unwavering devotion and asks Mirah to be his wife, promising to share all her griefs and joys. Overcome by his words, Mirah initially cannot speak, but she kisses him as a sign of eager acceptance.
The theft of Daniel’s ring exposes the inevitability of Lapidoth’s betrayal. While Mirah hopes for redemption, the act proves that he remains the same man he has always been. When she realizes both the ring and her father are missing, she does not react with shock but with painful recognition. At this moment, Daniel chooses to declare his love, seizing the opportunity to offer Mirah something stable in contrast to the chaos her father represents.
Themes
