Miriam Leivers

Personality and Background: Miriam is introduced as a sensitive and introspective character. She comes from a strict, religious background, and her upbringing has instilled in her a sense of moral and spiritual values. She is deeply intellectual and is drawn to the spiritual and the metaphysical.

Relationship with Paul: Miriam's relationship with Paul is characterized by a deep emotional and intellectual connection. They share a profound bond, but their relationship is often strained by Paul's physical desires and Miriam's reluctance to fully embrace a physical relationship. This leads to tension and conflict between them.

Conflict with Mrs. Morel: Miriam's deep connection with Paul and her intellectual pursuits create tension between her and Mrs. Morel, who is jealous of their relationship and disapproves of Miriam's influence on her son.

Clara Dawes

Personality and Background: Clara is a more worldly and assertive character compared to Miriam. She is a married woman who separates from her husband, Baxter Dawes, due to an unhappy marriage. She is independent and associated with the feminist movements of the time.

Relationship with Paul: Clara's relationship with Paul is passionate and sexual, which contrasts with the more intellectual connection he shares with Miriam. Clara is open to a physical relationship with Paul and helps him explore his own desires and sexuality. Their relationship is passionate but tumultuous due to Clara's ongoing attachment to her estranged husband.

Independence and Modernity: Clara represents a more independent and modern woman in the novel. Her involvement in feminist movements reflects her desire for autonomy and equality, which is a stark contrast to the traditional roles represented by characters like Miriam and Mrs. Morel.

Miriam and Clara are two distinct female characters in Sons and Lovers. Miriam is characterized by her intellectual and spiritual nature, while Clara is more worldly and sexually liberated. Their relationships with Paul are fundamentally different, with Miriam emphasizing emotional and intellectual connection and Clara representing a more physical and passionate relationship. These two characters serve to illustrate Paul Morel's exploration of love, desire, and relationships in the novel.