Misunderstood Maggie Tulliver is torn. Her rebellious and passionate nature craves expression, but her provincial kin and community expect self-denial. When her father’s folly places their ancestral home in jeopardy, Maggie is forced to draw upon her intelligence and sensitivity qualities unappreciated in a woman of her time and place. Her failure to uphold the family honor excites the self-righteous wrath of her neighbors, a scornful condemnation shared even by Maggie’s adored brother, Tom.
Written in 1860, The Mill on the Floss reflects the values of England’s growing middle-class society. Maggie’s story, with some incidents and characters drawn directly from author George Eliot’s own life, explores the conflicts of love and loyalty and the friction between desire and moral responsibility. An accurate, evocative depiction of English rural life, this compelling narrative features vivid and realistic characterizations, including one of nineteenth-century literature’s most appealing heroines.
Embark on a captivating journey into the heart of Victorian England with George Eliot's timeless masterpiece, *The Mill on the Floss*. This Dover Thrift Edition offers an affordable and accessible entry point into one of the most beloved and enduring novels in English literature. Delve into the turbulent life of Maggie Tulliver, a character whose passionate spirit clashes fiercely with the rigid social constraints of her time. Set against the backdrop of the quaint, yet unforgiving, rural community of St. Ogg's, the novel follows Maggie's struggles for self-expression and acceptance. Intelligent and yearning for a life beyond the narrow confines of her upbringing, Maggie finds herself constantly at odds with the expectations placed upon women in the 19th century. Her deep affection for her brother, Tom, is complicated by their differing values and Tom's unyielding adherence to family honor and societal norms. When their father's financial ruin plunges the family into disgrace, Maggie's choices become a battleground between personal desire and familial duty. George Eliot, the pen name of Mary Ann Evans, infuses the narrative with a profound understanding of human psychology and a keen eye for social detail. Drawing inspiration from her own experiences, particularly her complex relationship with her brother, Isaac, Eliot crafts a deeply moving and realistic portrayal of sibling rivalry, romantic longing, and the limitations imposed on women in Victorian society. *The Mill on the Floss* is more than just a story of personal struggle; it's a powerful exploration of universal themes such as love, loyalty, morality, and the search for meaning in a world often defined by prejudice and hypocrisy. The novel's enduring appeal lies in its complex and nuanced characters, its evocative descriptions of the English countryside, and its unflinching examination of the human condition. Discover why *The Mill on the Floss* continues to resonate with readers today. This Dover Thrift Edition provides an excellent opportunity to experience Eliot's literary genius and to reflect on the timeless challenges of navigating personal desires within the framework of social expectations. Explore the inner world of Maggie Tulliver, a heroine who, despite facing societal scorn and personal heartbreak, remains an unforgettable symbol of resilience and the enduring power of the human spirit. Perfect for students, book clubs, and anyone seeking a thought-provoking and emotionally rich reading experience, *The Mill on the Floss* is a must-have addition to any classic literature collection. This edition, published in 2020, ensures a clear and comfortable reading experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in Eliot's captivating prose. Rediscover a literary treasure and prepare to be moved by the timeless story of Maggie Tulliver.