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Chapter 7
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 returns home devastated after Gwendolen’s rejection. He falls into illness and refuses to interact with anyone. His family is deeply concerned. Anna stays by his side, feeling torn between worry for Rex and anger at Gwendolen for causing his pain. Mrs. Gascoigne also resents Gwendolen, accusing her of being heartless, while Mr. Gascoigne remains practical. He focuses on the long-term, seeing Rex’s suffering as temporary and insisting they avoid dwelling on the incident with Gwendolen.
Rex’s illness shows how deeply Gwendolen’s rejection affects him, leaving him unable to face his family or responsibilities. Anna’s conflict between sympathy for Rex and anger at Gwendolen shows her growing frustration with Gwendolen’s lack of consideration for others. Mr. Gascoigne tries to steady the ship, but it is clear that his entire family is starting to get fed up with Gwendolen.
Themes
As Rex starts to recover, he tells Anna he wants to leave England and start over in the colonies. Anna offers to go with him, imagining a simpler life, but Mr. Gascoigne rejects the plan. In a private talk, Mr. Gascoigne convinces Rex to stay and return to his studies, reminding him of his responsibilities and how time will heal. Rex agrees reluctantly, still feeling hopeless. Anna hides her disappointment about not going with him and resolves to avoid being like Gwendolen, whose actions have caused so much pain.
Rex’s decision to leave England shows his desire to escape his heartbreak and seek a fresh start far from the memories of Gwendolen. Anna’s offer to join him shows her willingness to support him, but Mr. Gascoigne’s intervention emphasizes the importance of duty and stability over emotional impulses.
Themes
