Clarissa Vaughan is a fictional character from the novel Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf. She is portrayed as a socialite in post-World War I England, known for her vibrant personality and deep introspection. Clarissa is preparing for a party she is hosting, reflecting on her life choices, relationships, and the passage of time. Throughout the novel, Clarissa grapples with themes of identity and the impact of societal expectations. Her character is often contrasted with Septimus Warren Smith, a war veteran struggling with mental health issues. This juxtaposition highlights the varying experiences of individuals in the same era, emphasizing the complexities of human existence.