Mr. Lush Character Analysis in Daniel Deronda

Mr. Lush is Henleigh Grandcourt’s longtime confidant and personal advisor. Shrewd and self-serving, Lush acts as a facilitator for Grandcourt’s schemes, particularly in his pursuit of Gwendolen Harleth. While Lush helps to smooth over complications, such as managing Lydia Glasher’s demands, his position is one of reluctant loyalty. He openly disapproves of Grandcourt’s intention to marry Gwendolen, fearing that her strong-willed nature will upset the balance of Grandcourt’s control. Despite his efforts to dissuade Grandcourt, he continues to carry out his employer’s wishes, ensuring that Grandcourt’s manipulations remain effective.

Mr. Lush Character Timeline in Daniel Deronda

The timeline below shows where the character Mr. Lush appears in Daniel Deronda. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.

Marriage, Gender, and Control Theme Icon

...formal ball. Gwendolen expresses interest in taking part, as does Grandcourt. During this discussion, Mr. Lush, Grandcourt’s associate—who effectively acts as a servant—suggests hosting the meeting at Diplow, Grandcourt’s estate. Gwendolen... (full context)

Two days after the Archery Meeting, Grandcourt sits at breakfast with Lush at Diplow, indifferent to everything around him. He idly pets a small Maltese dog while... (full context)

Lush presses the issue, pointing out that Grandcourt has debts and should consider marrying into money.... (full context)

...own fault. Shaken, Gwendolen finally states that she will accept if he proposes. Meanwhile, Mr. Lush travels to Wanchester to meet a woman with two children (for the time, their identities... (full context)

The picnic continues with lively conversation and food, though Gwendolen remains preoccupied. Mr. Lush, keeping his distance, busies himself assisting guests. When it is time to resume the archery,... (full context)

...she mentions this at dinner, Grandcourt, though outwardly indifferent, takes note. Soon after, he instructs Lush to break up their gathering, as he plans to leave for Leubronn under the guise... (full context)

...woman he saw gambling at Leubronn: Gwendolen Harleth. Grandcourt feigns indifference but is clearly interested. Lush reveals that Grandcourt had nearly proposed to Gwendolen before she abruptly left, and now he... (full context)

Upon learning that Gwendolen has left Leubronn, Grandcourt grows bored and tells Lush he plans to return to Diplow. However, he lingers aimlessly, instead of leaving right away,... (full context)

Meanwhile, Lush enjoys gossiping with Sir Hugo about Grandcourt’s affairs, particularly the baronet’s interest in acquiring Diplow... (full context)

At Diplow, Lush uses his time to gather intelligence on Gwendolen’s situation. He discovers her family’s financial ruin... (full context)

When Grandcourt arrives, his focus on the stables suggests a renewed interest in Gwendolen. Lush debates whether to interfere but ultimately waits for an opening. The next morning, Grandcourt casually... (full context)

Emboldened by irritation and the likelihood of his own future dismissal, Lush reveals that Gwendolen has already learned about Lydia and her children. He expects this revelation... (full context)

...Gwendolen experiences an immediate shift from powerlessness to powerful. She asserts herself, demanding Grandcourt remove Lush from their lives, and he complies without hesitation, solidifying her sense of control. As she... (full context)

Meanwhile, at Diplow, Lush senses that his position is at risk. When he asks about the wedding, Grandcourt confirms... (full context)

...only for her wealth and beauty. As she glances around the room, she spots Mr. Lush near Grandcourt. His presence unsettles her. She suddenly realizes how much he knows about Grandcourt’s... (full context)

On the carriage ride home, Grandcourt informs Gwendolen that Lush will be dining with them. Gwendolen knows this is a test. Grandcourt once promised to... (full context)

Grandcourt strengthens his grip by forcing Gwendolen to listen as Lush explains the contents of Grandcourt’s will. She refuses at first, but Grandcourt blocks her escape.... (full context)