How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
They were not sins; they were sufferings. (6.11)
Newman assumes that Claire has done something wrong that led to her tragic situation. Not the case, buddy.
Quote #2
And what does she suffer from? (6.12)
There's always an assumption that people can pinpoint the exact cause of their suffering. Newman's about to learn that it's much more ambiguous. Welcome to being a character in a Henry James novel, Newman!
Quote #3
She made, at eighteen, a marriage that was expected to be brilliant, but that turned out like a lamp that goes out; all smoke and bad smell. (8.14)
Valentin unconsciously justifies his family's decision to marry off Claire by saying it was a no-brainer. Instead, he realizes that it was a no-heart'er.