Clarissa's Lovers

Upon reading Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf and discussing it in class, most of us have come to the conclusion that Clarissa Dalloway lives a life of concealed regret, often found reminiscing about what could've been. This point is reinforced by the different romantic characters that come into her life, and how she's affected by them.

Peter Walsh, for starters, represents the uncertainty women of her time faced when encountering their first love. Though it may have been tempting for both of them (certainly for Peter) to seal the knot, there were definitely some personality inconsistencies. In 1923 when this novel takes place, Clarissa finds herself thinking back to him numerous times. It is possible that she is dwelling on him and even wishes she'd said yes to his marriage proposal. However, I think the fact that she declined and continued with her life says something about her rebellious character. In the early 20th century, women were expected to settle down young and start makin' babies right away to keep the family line going. By recognizing the faults in Peter's character and rejecting him, it is clear that she still hasn't seen all her options, and knows it. Indeed, even 30 years later when they reunite, she is ticked off by his little annoying habits (like the knife thing). Additionally, he's always been quite condescending of her. Describing her sarcastically as the perfect hostess, it is clear that they wouldn't have meshed well in the long run.

Peter and Clarissa go way back. Peter proposed to Clarissa, but she declined.

Here we see Peter ~30 years later. He is still conflicted about his feelings for Clarissa.

On the other hand, Richard Dalloway, almost the antithesis of Peter, ends up being the man whose name she takes (hence Mrs. Dalloway). Introduced in the book as a remarkably bland and timid character, he makes the reader wonder why Clarissa chose him. One conclusion that I came to is that he is the man society expects her to marry. An established member of Parliament, Clarissa finds herself growing fond of him. However, would this make her a gold digger? While she is found focusing the bulk of her time on parties and similar frivolous events, I believe that, in some ways, the two are almost perfect for each other. Though some may call them platonic, there is something soft and comforting about their relationship. In the end, though, I found it sad that he doesn't run through her mind on the daily, like Peter and Sally do. It seems like she settled for him just because she was supposed to.

Richard Dalloway is a classy man. This is probably why Clarissa chose him.

However, their relationship lacks its spark. Richard looks on as Clarissa meets someone more interesting.

Finally, Sally Seton sparks Clarissa's wild side. At the time the book was published, homosexuality was a foreign concept. However, the way Virginia Woolf illustrates their relationship is subtle, which I think makes the audience relate to them more. By avoiding specific labels, Woolf is able to craft Clarissa's most significant relationship in a way that seems both organic and appealing. Drawn to each other in their youth, the two women find comfort in each other's company, more so than they do with other people in their lives. After significant build up, they share a kiss--a moment of revelation that is soon crashed by a bumbling Peter. Though it only happens once, it's clear that the kiss is much more meaningful to them than those in their respective heterosexual relationships. Unfortunately, this love can't flourish in the late 19th century, and both women are pushed to marry who society wants them to.

Clarissa is thrilled and excited by Sally's company.

Eventually, they share a kiss, which Clarissa describes as "the most exquisite moment of her whole life."