Silas Marner by George Eliot

Silas Marner by George Eliot

George Eliot wrote a book called “Silas Marner”. The story was set in

the Victorian times when the market economy and industries were

booming! The book was published in 1861, London, but George Eliot was

concerned with the events from 1780s to 1820s about the fact that many

did not read books written by women. “ The novel’s major theme, of

loss and redemption through love, is embodied in the experience of its

central character, Silas Marner” this is a theme, which is stated in

the book. Class society is a key theme in the novel because it shows

the rich being more superior to the peasants. Godfrey and Silas both

have a role as a father figure, which is a common factor.

We can say that Squire Cass is considered to be a bad fatherly figure

in the novel. Squire Cass lives in the Red house and he is the

greatest man in Raveloe also a rich landowner. He spends most of his

time at the Rainbow inn, a place were wealthy men come to keep

themselves occupied. The Squire is lazy, self-satisfied, and short

tempered. Squire Cass made his children work and when their mother

died he did not say anything to comfort them, he lacked in maternal

influence. The Squire does not seem to care very much for his sons,

only for his money. He allows his sons to do pretty much whatever they

please, because he does not care what happens to them as long as his

tenants are not involved. After their mother’s death the two boys

lacked in love, care, attention, discipline and guidance, therefore

they turned out rather ill. “I’ve been to good a father to you all –

that’s what it is.” The Squire complains that he has been “too good a

father” which is a lie for the reason that he has spoiled his sons.

However he did support them in giving Godfrey and Dunstan the

opportunities for a better future. They were sent to school for there

education and they also had a warm place to live.