Samuel Richardson's novel 'Clarissa' is considered one of the greatest works of English literature. The book, published in 1748, is an epistolary novel that tells the tragic story of a young woman named Clarissa Harlowe who struggles against the constraints of her time. Richardson's writing style is rich and intricate, with a focus on moral and ethical dilemmas faced by the characters. The novel is renowned for its psychological depth and complex characterizations, making it a seminal work in the development of the novel as a literary form. 'Clarissa' is a poignant exploration of love, betrayal, and the struggle for identity in a society that values propriety above individual desires. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of the novel and the evolution of the English novelistic tradition.