Previous
Chapter 68
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
Sir Hugo moves to Diplow for the autumn, bringing cheer to the neighborhood with his charm and attentiveness, particularly toward Gwendolen. Though he knows about Daniel’s engagement to Mirah, Hugo privately reflects on Gwendolen’s fragile state and decides not to inform her yet, believing Daniel should break the news. However, Daniel struggles to disclose the news, fearing the emotional toll it will take on Gwendolen. On his visits to Diplow, Gwendolen leans on him for guidance and shows a growing reliance on his moral support. Daniel, conscious of the weight of his news, hesitates during their earlier meetings but finally resolves to tell her on his third visit.
Sir Hugo’s decision not to tell Gwendolen about Daniel’s engagement suggests that he understands how much she still depends on him. He recognizes her fragile state and assumes that hearing the news from Daniel himself will be less painful. Meanwhile, Daniel’s hesitation in telling her shows his awareness of the emotional weight their relationship carries. Gwendolen leans on him for guidance, but he knows that revealing his engagement will force her to confront a reality she has been avoiding.
Themes
When Daniel arrives at Offendene, Gwendolen greets him with a calmer demeanor than before. Yet, as he begins to explain the revelation of his Jewish heritage, his future dedication to Zionist ideals, and his upcoming marriage to Mirah, Gwendolen becomes visibly shaken. The news dismantles her illusions of their connection and leaves her feeling abandoned. Her grief manifests as a mix of resignation and despair, culminating in her anguished acknowledgment of her own past cruelty and isolation.
When Daniel finally tells Gwendolen about his heritage and engagement, the news shatters her last illusion of a future where he remains by her side. Her reaction is not dramatic, but the shift in her demeanor reveals her deep pain. Daniel has always represented moral guidance, and with this final conversation, he is no longer just guiding her. Instead, he is leaving her behind.
Themes
Torn by guilt and compassion, Daniel comforts her as best he can, emphasizing the enduring bond of their mutual respect and promising to write to her. Their parting exchange is heartbreaking, as Gwendolen vows to live and improve herself, even in light of the devastating realization that Daniel’s path diverges permanently from hers. In the aftermath, Gwendolen collapses into hysterical grief but ultimately resolves to endure and grow stronger. Mrs. Davilow stays by her side, offering comfort, as Gwendolen insists that she will strive to better herself despite the profound sorrow she now carries.
Daniel offers comfort, but his words do not change Gwendolen’s reality. She understands that their paths have permanently diverged, and her final vow to live and improve herself is a quiet acceptance of that fact. Her breakdown after their parting reveals the depth of her grief, but this moment also marks a turning point. The hope she once placed in Daniel must now be redirected inward, forcing her to find strength without him.
Themes
