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Chapter 6
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
Rex’s growing love for Gwendolen consumes him. He keeps his feelings secret from Anna, though she has already guessed his feelings. Anna admires Gwendolen’s beauty and charm but views her cousin with unease, sensing Gwendolen’s self-centeredness and ambition. She fears Rex will suffer heartbreak, as she is convinced that Gwendolen, who thrives on admiration but rarely offers genuine affection, will never return his love.
Rex’s growing love for Gwendolen consumes him entirely, showing how his infatuation blinds him to her true nature. Anna’s unease captures her awareness of the imbalance in this dynamic; she sees Gwendolen’s charm for what it is—a tool for drawing admiration without any promise of genuine connection.
Themes
One morning, Rex plans to meet Gwendolen at a place called the Three Barns to participate in a local hunt, despite Anna’s pleas for caution. She reminds him that their parents disapprove of Gwendolen riding after the hounds, but Rex dismisses Anna’s concerns, eager to spend time with Gwendolen. When he arrives, Gwendolen, who looks dazzling in her riding attire, eagerly rides off with him. Her confidence and charm enchant Rex as they chat along the way. In high spirits, Gwendolen revels in teasing Rex and asserting her independence, proclaiming she only does what pleases her, ignoring the restrictions typically placed upon women.
Rex’s decision to pursue Gwendolen at the Three Barns against Anna’s advice shows his willingness to disregard both caution and family disapproval to be near her. Gwendolen, dazzling in her riding attire, uses her charm and wit to captivate Rex, making it clear she enjoys asserting her independence and defying conventional expectations for women. Her carefree declarations about only doing what pleases her suggest her belief in her own power to shape her destiny, regardless of societal norms.
Themes
At the hunt, Gwendolen captivates the gentlemen, including its leader, Lord Brackenshaw, who compliments her skill and bravery. Rex lingers nearby, unable to keep her attention. The thrill of the hunt energizes Gwendolen, who impulsively joins the chase despite prior warnings from her family. Confident in her abilities, she races ahead on her spirited chestnut horse. Rex follows, but his older, slower mount struggles to keep pace. His devotion to Gwendolen compels him to persist, even as the gap between them widens.
At the hunt, Gwendolen thrives on the admiration of the gentlemen, especially Lord Brackenshaw, whose praise bolsters her confidence. Her decision to join the chase, despite her family’s warnings, reveals her impulsiveness and hunger for excitement. Rex’s inability to capture her attention and his struggle to keep up on his slower horse emphasize the imbalance in their relationship. While Gwendolen views the hunt as an opportunity for thrill and recognition, Rex risks everything to remain close to her, demonstrating the one-sided nature of his devotion.
Themes
Disaster strikes when Rex’s horse stumbles in a mended lane, throwing him off and injuring both rider and animal. Dazed and in pain, Rex is aided by a passing blacksmith who resets his dislocated shoulder and helps him return home. Throughout the ordeal, Rex’s worry for Gwendolen outweighs his own discomfort.
Rex goes out of his comfort zone to pursue Gwendolen—against the wishes of his family—and his gamble does not pay off. Instead of wooing Gwendolen, he injures himself and grows none the wiser in the process. Even as he is in pain, Gwendolen dominates his thoughts.
Themes
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At Offendene, Gwendolen returns elated, her confidence bolstered from Lord Brackenshaw’s praise and her success in the hunt. When Mr. Gascoigne mentions Rex’s fall, Gwendolen feigns concern, asking briefly about his injuries before making light of the incident. She laughs at the image of Rex and his aging horse, joking that their mishap would make a fine caricature. Her lack of genuine empathy troubles Mr. Gascoigne and Mrs. Davilow, who caution her against further reckless behavior. Gwendolen shrugs off their warnings, irritated by their attempts to limit her freedom.
Rex’s fall during the hunt juxtaposes his physical and emotional vulnerability with Gwendolen’s triumphant return. His injuries, caused by his reckless pursuit of her, illustrate the sacrifices he is willing to make for her affection. Gwendolen’s reaction—feigned concern followed by mockery—demonstrates her lack of empathy and unwillingness to take responsibility for her influence on Rex’s actions.
Themes
The next day, Rex visits Offendene to confess his feelings to Gwendolen. Despite his injuries, he clings to the hope that Gwendolen might reciprocate his love. However, when they meet, Gwendolen is distant and aloof, her usual playful charm replaced with a cool detachment. Rex presses on, declaring his love and begging for her affection. Gwendolen recoils, sharply rejecting him. She insists she hates love declarations and demands he stop, her tone fierce and final. Rex, crushed by her words, leaves the room in despair.
Rex’s decision to confess his love despite his injuries reveals his unwavering belief that Gwendolen might reciprocate. Her cold detachment and eventual rejection show her discomfort with emotional vulnerability and her fear of being tied down by romantic expectations. Gwendolen’s sharp response reflects her need to maintain control and avoid any situation where she feels constrained.
Themes
After Rex’s departure, Gwendolen collapses into sobs, her façade of confidence shattered. Mrs. Davilow, alarmed by this rare display of vulnerability, rushes to comfort her. Gwendolen clings to her mother, confessing that she feels her life has no meaning and that she cannot love anyone. Mrs. Davilow tells Gwendolen that she will find love one day and holds her close.
Gwendolen’s emotional collapse after Rex’s departure marks a rare moment of introspection and vulnerability. This moment suggests that Gwendolen’s outward confidence masks an inner struggle with self-worth and purpose. Mrs. Davilow’s comforting words offer Gwendolen temporary solace, but they do little to address the deeper issues driving her unhappiness.
Themes
