Daniel Deronda

by

George Eliot

Catherine Arrowpoint Character Analysis

Catherine Arrowpoint is a wealthy young woman who defies societal expectations by pursuing a relationship with Herr Klesmer, a musician of lower social status. Intelligent and independent, Catherine rejects a more socially acceptable match in favor of her love for Klesmer, demonstrating her willingness to challenge the norms of her class.
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Catherine Arrowpoint Character Timeline in Daniel Deronda

The timeline below shows where the character Catherine Arrowpoint appears in Daniel Deronda. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.
Chapter 5
Identity and Self-Discovery Theme Icon
...hostess, engages Gwendolen in conversation, praising her varied interests. Mrs. Arrowpoint mentions that her daughter, Catherine, is a musician, and Gwendolen humbly suggests that she could probably learn a lot from... (full context)
Identity and Self-Discovery Theme Icon
Soon after, Herr Klesmer, a musician staying at Quetcham Hall, performs a duet with Catherine. The guests appreciate their performance, though some find it long. Afterward, Gwendolen is invited to... (full context)
Identity and Self-Discovery Theme Icon
Wealth and Social Class Theme Icon
...Herr Klesmer’s critique bothered Gwendolen, which accounts for the sharpness in her manner. Despite this, Catherine takes a liking to Gwendolen and ensures she remains included in their social circle. Ultimately,... (full context)
Chapter 10
Identity and Self-Discovery Theme Icon
Marriage, Gender, and Control Theme Icon
...who praises her abilities. Gwendolen revels in the attention and enjoys eclipsing other competitors, especially Catherine. Her triumph grows as she delivers an impressive three consecutive hits in the gold, earning... (full context)
Chapter 12
Marriage, Gender, and Control Theme Icon
...the invited women, Mrs. Gogoff, for being unattractive. When Lush suggests inviting Klesmer to entertain Catherine, Grandcourt responds with disdain, making it clear that he has no interest in Catherine or... (full context)
Chapter 13
Marriage, Gender, and Control Theme Icon
...of his attention. At a party he hosts at Diplow, he openly favors her over Catherine, making it clear to their social circle that he intends to marry her. Mr. Gascoigne... (full context)
Chapter 22
Marriage, Gender, and Control Theme Icon
Familial Duty Theme Icon
Wealth and Social Class Theme Icon
...prompting him to delay his departure. Tensions have been growing in the Arrowpoint household, as Catherine’s parents, who expect her to marry the ambitious politician Mr. Bult, have been oblivious to... (full context)
Marriage, Gender, and Control Theme Icon
Wealth and Social Class Theme Icon
Over time, Catherine and Klesmer’s mutual admiration has deepened. Though not conventionally beautiful, Catherine’s refinement and intellect have... (full context)
Marriage, Gender, and Control Theme Icon
Wealth and Social Class Theme Icon
...of idealism in English politics, irritating Bult, who dismisses him as a mere musician. Later, Catherine chides Klesmer for his impatience, but the conversation quickly turns personal. Klesmer confesses his love... (full context)
Marriage, Gender, and Control Theme Icon
Familial Duty Theme Icon
Wealth and Social Class Theme Icon
Catherine immediately informs her parents, who are outraged. Catherine firmly rejects their expectations, stating that her... (full context)
Chapter 23
Identity and Self-Discovery Theme Icon
...indignities she cannot imagine. When she declares she will accept no charity, he gently offers Catherine’s help, revealing their upcoming marriage. This final blow turns Gwendolen’s disappointment into humiliation. She abruptly... (full context)