Remarks on Clarissa (1749)

"Remarks on Clarissa" by Sarah Fielding is a critical commentary written in the mid-18th century. The work addresses a series of criticisms about Samuel Richardson's novel "Clarissa" and offers reflections on its characters and themes, particularly focusing on the character of Clarissa Harlowe herself. This text aims to analyze the reception and interpretation of "Clarissa," exploring both objections and defenses related to the protagonist's moral choices and the overall narrative structure. The opening of "Remarks on Clarissa" establishes a conversational tone as the author shares reflections sparked by critiques of "Clarissa" that were discussed among a group of friends. Fielding presents various perspectives on the criticisms leveled against the story's length and the character choices of Clarissa and her family. She highlights that some detractors find the narrative tedious and filled with uninteresting details, while others appreciate the depth of character exploration that elucidates moral lessons. The author emphasizes the value of understanding characters’ motives and complexities, setting the stage for a more nuanced analysis of Richardson's themes and characterizations that will follow in the discourse.