First published in 1860, George Eliot's "The Mill on the Floss" tells the story of Tom and Maggie Tulliver, a brother and sister growing up on the fictional river Floss near the village of St. Oggs in Lincolnshire, England. Set in the early 1800s over a period of several years, the novel follows the two main characters from childhood to young adulthood. Maggie and Tom's love and loyalty to each other is the primary relationship of the novel, as well as Maggie's connections to the two young suitors she is often torn between. Maggie struggles to decide if she will violate the social code of her time and risk ostracism from her family and friends to follow her own passions and desires. It is a struggle that women from many time periods can relate to. While Tom is stubborn and traditional, Maggie is often caught between what she should do and what she wants to do. This deeply personal and tragic tale remains a popular and enduring example of George Eliot's importance in English literature. This edition is printed on premium acid-free paper.
George Eliot
George Eliot was the pen name of Mary Ann Evans, a prominent Victorian-era novelist known for her insightful and complex characterizations. Her most notable works include "Middlemarch," considered one of the greatest novels in the English language, and "Silas Marner," a poignant tale of redemption and community. Eliot's literary style is characterized by its psychological depth, moral complexity, and social commentary. She was a pioneer in the realist tradition, exploring themes of morality, religion, and human relationships in her writing. Eliot's contributions to literature include challenging traditional gender roles and societal norms, as well as expanding the scope and depth of the novel as an art form. Her work continues to be celebrated for its profound insights into the human condition and its enduring relevance in contemporary society.