The Ultimate Guide to George Eliot's The Mill on the Floss

Study Guide for George Eliot's The Mill on the Floss (Course Hero Study Guides)

by Mark Jasper

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1431 KB
Print length	:	53 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

George Eliot's The Mill on the Floss is a powerful and moving novel that explores the complex lives of the Tulliver family in Victorian England. First published in 1860, the novel has since become a beloved classic of English literature. Our comprehensive study guide is designed to help you delve into the depths of this masterpiece, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of its characters, themes, symbolism, and more.

Character Analysis

• Maggie Tulliver: The protagonist of the novel, Maggie is a strong-willed and intelligent young woman who struggles against the constraints of Victorian society. Her passionate nature and desire for independence often lead her into conflict with others.
• Tom Tulliver: Maggie's older brother, Tom is a more conventional and practical character. He is often seen as the more responsible and reliable member of the family, but he can also be stubborn and judgmental.
• Mr. Tulliver: Maggie and Tom's father, Mr. Tulliver is a proud and hardworking man. He is deeply attached to his family, but his financial struggles and quick temper often cause him problems.
• Mrs. Tulliver: Maggie and Tom's mother, Mrs. Tulliver is a kind and loving woman. She is often overwhelmed by the demands of her family, but she always tries to do her best.
• Philip Wakem: A young man who falls in love with Maggie, Philip is a sensitive and intelligent artist. He is often seen as an outsider by the Tulliver family, but he remains steadfast in his devotion to Maggie.

Themes

• The Conflict Between Tradition and Individualism: The Mill on the Floss explores the tension between the traditional values of Victorian society and the desire for individual freedom and expression.
• The Power of Love: The novel explores the different forms of love, from romantic love to familial love. It shows how love can be both a source of strength and a source of pain.
• The Destructive Nature of Prejudice: The Mill on the Floss shows how prejudice can lead to division and even violence. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of tolerance and understanding.

Symbolism

• The River Floss: The River Floss is a central symbol in the novel. It represents the passage of time, the flow of life, and the inevitability of death.
• The Red Deeps: The Red Deeps is a deep pool in the River Floss. It is a place of danger and mystery, and it is often associated with death and violence.
• The Mill: The mill is a symbol of the Tulliver family's livelihood and their struggle to survive in a changing world.

The Mill on the Floss is a complex and challenging novel, but it is also a deeply rewarding one. Our comprehensive study guide will help you to unlock the many layers of this masterpiece, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of its characters, themes, symbolism, and more. Whether you are a student, a teacher, or simply a lover of great literature, we encourage you to explore the world of George Eliot's The Mill on the Floss.

Additional Resources

• CliffsNotes on The Mill on the Floss
• SparkNotes on The Mill on the Floss
• LitCharts on The Mill on the Floss

Study Guide for George Eliot's The Mill on the Floss (Course Hero Study Guides)

by Mark Jasper

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1431 KB
Print length	:	53 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE