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Chapter 8
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
Eight months after the Davilow family moves to Offendene, rumors spread that Diplow Hall, Sir Hugo Mallinger’s estate, is being prepared for his nephew, Mr. Mallinger Grandcourt. Grandcourt, a wealthy bachelor and potential heir to a baronetcy, is set to stay there for the summer and hunting season. This news excites the local community, with some hoping for employment opportunities and others speculating on Grandcourt’s potential for marriage. At Offendene, Mrs. Davilow secretly hopes Grandcourt might show interest in Gwendolen, while Gwendolen herself jokes confidently about her ability to captivate him at the upcoming Archery Meeting. Despite her mother’s concerns, Gwendolen remains focused on making her own choices and, as such, she has little interest in Grandcourt.
The rumors about Grandcourt’s arrival introduce him as a figure of wealth and status, sparking excitement and speculation within the community. Mrs. Davilow’s quiet hope that he might take an interest in Gwendolen shows her concern for her daughter’s future and the societal pressure to secure a prosperous match. Gwendolen’s confident jokes about captivating him reflect her self-assurance and her belief in her ability to control her destiny. Her lack of real interest in Grandcourt suggests her preference for independence and her resistance to letting societal expectations dictate her choices.
Themes
Meanwhile, tensions linger between Gwendolen, Mrs. Gascoigne, and Anna due to Gwendolen’s treatment of Rex. Anna avoids mentioning her brother, and Gwendolen notices that Anna and Mrs. Gascoigne keep their distance from her, which only makes her want to be more defiant. Still, she maintains a good relationship with Mr. Gascoigne, who enjoys practicing archery with her. Despite Gwendolen’s lively social presence, none of the eligible young men in the area have proposed to her. This adds to the anticipation surrounding Grandcourt’s arrival, as many in the community see him as a particularly desirable match.
Although she maintains a good relationship with Mr. Gascoigne, Gwendolen’s defiant approach to marriage and courtship seems to have alienated her from much of the surrounding community, including members of her own family. However, Grandcourt’s arrival gives Gwendolen a chance to alter her behavior should she change her mind and decide to pursue marriage. If nothing else, Grandcourt’s social status is certainly appealing to her.
Themes
