53 pages • 1 hour read
Silas Marner
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Book Brief
262
Novel • Fiction
Raveloe, England • Early 19th century
1861
Adult
16+ years
Super Short Summary
Silas Marner by George Eliot is set in 19th-century England and follows Silas, a weaver wrongfully accused of theft who moves to Raveloe, where he lives in isolation and saves money obsessively. His life changes when his gold is stolen, and he adopts an abandoned child, Eppie, who revitalizes him. Silas integrates into the community while the mystery of his stolen gold and Eppie's true parentage unfolds. This book discusses addiction and depression, which feature in the story.
Melancholic
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
91,479 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Silas Marner by George Eliot receives praise for its rich character development and exploration of themes like redemption and community. The pastoral setting and moral depth convey Eliot's skillful narrative. Some readers, however, find the pacing slow and the plot predictable. Overall, it's celebrated as a deeply moving and thoughtful novel.
Who Should Read Silas Marner?
A reader who enjoys Silas Marner by George Eliot would appreciate rich character development, themes of redemption, and intricate social commentary. Fans of Dickens' Great Expectations or Hardy's Tess of the d'Urbervilles will find similar enjoyment in its exploration of human nature and society.
91,479 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Godfrey Cass
Godfrey Cass
A wealthy but conflicted landowner, who struggles with his moral decisions and the influence of his more openly unscrupulous brother, Dunsey.
Eppie
Eppie
A young girl whose arrival brings warmth and purpose to Silas's life, as she grows under his care and becomes an important part of the community.
Dunstan “Dunsey” Cass
Dunstan “Dunsey” Cass
Godfrey’s brother, known for his openly villainous behavior, causing trouble and distress through his morally questionable actions.
262
Novel • Fiction
Raveloe, England • Early 19th century
1861
Adult
16+ years
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