"Middlemarch" by George Eliot (1871): A Review

George Eliot’s Middlemarch, published in 1871-1872, is often regarded as one of the greatest novels in the English language. With its vast scope, complex characters, and its deep exploration of social, political, and personal issues, Middlemarch is a richly textured narrative that examines the intricacies of provincial life in Victorian England. In the novel, Eliot, whose real name was Mary Ann Evans, engages with themes of marriage, idealism, political reform, and the limits of individual agency within a rigid social structure. Set in a fictional English town, Middlemarch offers an unparalleled examination of the human condition in all its complexity.

Plot Summary

At the heart of Middlemarch are several intertwined stories that revolve around key characters and their interactions within the social and political landscape of the town. The novel is often described as an ensemble piece, with multiple plotlines that converge on issues of morality, self-interest, and personal growth.

The central story involves Dorothea Brooke, an intelligent, idealistic young woman who is determined to make a meaningful contribution to the world. Dorothea marries the much older, conservative scholar Edward Casaubon in the hopes of engaging in intellectual and social reform, only to find that her marriage is stifling and filled with emotional neglect. Casaubon’s refusal to recognize Dorothea’s intellectual capabilities and the misery of their marriage lead her to question her idealistic vision of herself and her role in society.

Another primary storyline follows the character of Dr. Tertius Lydgate, an ambitious young doctor who comes to Middlemarch with grand plans to reform medicine. Lydgate’s aspirations are hindered by the realities of his personal and financial circumstances, as well as his marriage to the beautiful but materialistic Rosamond Vincy. His disillusionment with the medical profession and his struggles with societal expectations provide another layer of Eliot’s critique of idealism and ambition.

Meanwhile, the town of Middlemarch is also shaped by political and social events, particularly the issue of reform. Eliot introduces characters such as the political reformer Will Ladislaw, who is passionate about change, and the conservative Mrs. Casaubon, who represents the established social order. Through these characters and their interactions, Eliot examines the complex relationship between personal desires and the political climate of the time.

Themes and Analysis

One of the most significant themes of Middlemarch is the tension between idealism and reality. The characters in the novel, especially Dorothea and Lydgate, are driven by noble intentions and a desire to effect change in the world. However, their idealistic visions often clash with the limitations imposed by society, personal desires, and human fallibility. Dorothea’s marriage to Casaubon, for example, represents her misguided idealism, as she is initially blinded by the prospect of intellectual and social reform but soon finds herself trapped in a marriage where her own talents are disregarded. Similarly, Lydgate's hopes for medical reform are stifled by his personal circumstances, including his ill-fated marriage and the pressures of society.

Eliot also delves into the theme of social change and reform. The novel is set in a period of great political upheaval, as England was undergoing significant social and political changes, including the passing of the Reform Act of 1832. Eliot’s characters, like Will Ladislaw and others involved in political activism, reflect the complexities of advocating for change in a society that is reluctant to alter its established norms. Through these characters, Eliot portrays the struggles of individuals who seek to improve the world while being constrained by the limitations of their circumstances and by the societal structures that resist change.

Another key theme is the nature of marriage and relationships. In Middlemarch, marriage is portrayed as both a personal and societal institution, and Eliot examines how the dynamics of relationships can be shaped by ambition, self-interest, and power. Dorothea’s marriage to Casaubon is an example of how personal relationships are often influenced by social expectations and individual aspirations. Lydgate’s marriage to Rosamond is another illustration of how romantic love can be marred by misunderstandings and societal pressures, with each partner bringing different expectations to the relationship.

Eliot also explores the limitations of human knowledge and ambition. Through Casaubon, Lydgate, and other characters, Eliot critiques the desire for total mastery or control over life and knowledge. Casaubon’s obsessive quest to complete his life’s work is a symbol of the dangers of overreaching ambition, while Lydgate’s professional and personal struggles demonstrate the fragility of human plans in the face of unpredictable circumstances.

Literary Style

Eliot’s writing in Middlemarch is known for its psychological depth and its exploration of human motivations. She uses a third-person omniscient narrative that allows her to delve deeply into the thoughts, feelings, and perspectives of her characters. Her prose is dense and philosophical, often meditating on the social, political, and moral issues of her time. The novel’s structure is complex, with multiple storylines interwoven to create a rich tapestry of social and personal conflicts.

One of the notable aspects of Eliot’s style is her use of free indirect discourse, a technique that allows the narrative voice to blend seamlessly with a character’s thoughts and emotions. This technique helps Eliot convey the internal conflicts of her characters and provides readers with an intimate view of their struggles, making the novel feel both expansive and deeply personal. Her dialogue is also highly detailed, reflecting the intricacies of social interaction and character development.

Reception and Legacy

When Middlemarch was first published, it was met with both acclaim and criticism. Many readers were struck by the novel’s psychological depth and its exploration of the social issues of the day. Eliot was praised for her realistic depiction of provincial life and for the moral complexity of her characters. The novel’s multi-layered narrative structure and its blending of social critique with intimate character study earned it a place as one of the great works of Victorian literature.

In the years since its publication, Middlemarch has only grown in stature. It is now regarded as one of the greatest novels in the English language, and it has had a significant impact on literary scholarship and the development of the realist novel. Eliot’s nuanced exploration of social class, gender, and the human condition remains relevant today, and her work continues to be studied and admired for its intellectual rigor and emotional depth.

Conclusion

Middlemarch is a novel that combines social critique, psychological insight, and an exploration of human morality and ambition. Through its richly drawn characters and its exploration of the tensions between idealism and reality, George Eliot’s masterpiece offers an enduring reflection on the complexity of human life. The novel’s intricate narrative, coupled with its themes of social change, marriage, and personal growth, makes it a work of profound depth and significance. As a work of Victorian realism, Middlemarch remains a powerful and timeless exploration of the individual’s place within society, the cost of ambition, and the pursuit of personal happiness.