Summary

Belinda grieves for her hair. The sylphs withdraw, replaced by a gnome, Umbriel, who only worsens her fury and distress. He brings Belinda a bag full of sorrows, making her feel even worse. She mourns in solitude for a while until she is joined by her friend, Thalestris. Thalestris holds Belinda and comforts her, empathizing with the loss of her hair. She speaks at length about how Belinda has been wronged, possibly lost her honor, and demands that her beau, Sir Plume, go get the Baron to return the lock he has stolen. He swears to do so. He demands it from the Baron, and the Baron refuses straightforwardly, promising he will wear it forever. Meanwhile, Umbriel breaks open a vial full of sorrows, which renews Belinda's sorrows. She repents having not listened to Ariel and grieves for her stolen hair.

Analysis

The principal...