Gwendolen Harleth encounters Henleigh Grandcourt and Daniel Deronda at separate events. Faced with family financial trouble and knowing the status of Lydia Glasher, Gwendolen receives a marriage proposal from Grandcourt.

Daniel rescues Mirah Lapidoth from a suicide attempt and searches for her mother and brother in London. Grandcourt informs Lydia of his planned nuptials, and she sends to Gwendolen a package with a curse.

The Grandcourt marriage develops. A critical musician, Herr Klesmer is invited to hear Mirah sing. Daniel finds Mirah's brother Ezra and arranges a meeting. Finally, Sir Hugo Mallinger hands Daniel a letter from his mother.

After Daniel meets his mother in Genoa and learns the circumstances of his birth and childhood, the Grandcourts have serious trouble while small boat sailing. Ultimately, Daniel makes decisions on a marriage and his life.