Samuel Richardson and the theory of tragedy is a bold new interpretation of one of the greatest European novels, Samuel Richardson's Clarissa. The book argues that Clarissa needs to be rethought as a dangerous exploration of the ethics of tragedy, on the scale of the great arguments of post-Romantic tragic theory, from Hölderlin and Nietzsche, to Benjamin and Lacan and beyond. Influenced by and providing introductory readings of all of these thinkers, the book also reflects the latest developments in eighteenth-century studies, from developing views of the concept of the Enlightenment to recent work on anthology literature and quotation in the period. Taking the reader through Clarissa from beginning to end, Samuel Richardson and the theory of tragedy acts as a guidebook for newcomers to Richardson's notoriously massive text, situating it alongside his other works and the epistolary novel form in general. Filled with innovative close readings, this book will also serve as a jumping off point for anyone interested in the way the theory of tragedy continues to be the privileged meeting point between literature and philosophy.Samuel Richardson and the theory of tragedy will appeal to both literature scholars and students, and to anyone with an interest in tragedy and ethics in critical theory.