George Eliot, pen name for Mary Ann Evans, wrote during a period when female writers were typically associated with the romance novel. Eliot broke away from the norm, using her pen name as a veil for her real identity. She paved the way for herself as one of the most defining novelists of the 19th century. From Middlemarch to Silas Marner, Eliot’s novels are characterized by a gritty realism, gifting modern readers with a unique snapshot into Victorian life. Keep reading for a look at five of her most amazing novels.
Trigger Warning: The themes of grief, mental health, and abusive relationships may be triggering for some readers. Please exercise personal care while reading.
The Mill on the Floss (1860)
Centering on characters Maggie and Tom Tulliver, The Mill on the Floss chronicles their lives all the way through childhood to adulthood. Set in a fictional town called St Ogg’s in Lincolnshire, England, Maggie grapples with her own expectations against the influence of the various male figures in her life.
It’s a novel haunted by the weight of tragedy and human experience, entwined with snippets of Eliot’s personal life and childhood. Parts of the novel echo her estranged relationship with her own brother, illustrating an emotional portrait of family and love. Prepare to shed a tear with this one.
Silas Marner (1861)
Eliot’s third novel tells the tale of Silas Marner, a modest weaver wrongfully accused of a crime he didn’t commit, and forced to leave Lantern Yard community. Now outcast from the rest of society, Silas must reclaim his life, starting with his craft of weaving.
With its striking themes of redemption and destiny, Silas Marner is a heartfelt story about finding hope and family in unexpected places. The novel is simple yet so tender, and it’s actually one of Eliot’s shortest works, making it the perfect classic to cozy up with.
Romola (1863)
Set in Renaissance Florence during the era of the Medici family, Romola is a tale of moral awakening and self-discovery. The story follows Romola de’ Bardi, the daughter of a blind scholar, who marries Tito Melema. As their relationship unravels, she learns the extent of Tito’s betrayals and must confront a series of difficult truths.
Romola isn’t necessarily a tale of adventure or romance, but rather an insightful ethical novel that reveals Eliot’s own stance on morality and compassion. Through Romola’s struggles with betrayal and personal responsibility, Eliot provides a thoughtful exploration of human nature. Lovers of historical fiction will enjoy immersing themselves in the rich backdrop of Renaissance Florence.
Middlemarch (1872)
It goes without saying that Middlemarch might just be Eliot’s most incredible work. Adored by fans and literary critics alike, the book is considered one of the greatest novels in the English language. It’s such an intricate portrayal of ambition, idealism, social change, and marriage (basically her masterpiece!).
If you’re ready to uncover the world of George Eliot for the first time, this all-time classic is a wonderful place to start. Set in the early 1830s in the fictional English town of Middlemarch, the novel connects the worlds of several characters, revealing their everyday lives and unspoken struggles. At the center of it all are Dorothea Brooke and Tertius Lydgate, whose characters reveal themes such as love and change, with an intense psychological depth. Eliot’s measured style will sweep you away, and you’ll lose yourself in the world of Middlemarch.
Daniel Deronda (1876)
Eliot’s final novel, Daniel Deronda, interweaves two storylines, depicting characters Gwendolen Harleth, an ambitious young woman who desires to escape her loveless marriage, and Daniel Deronda. While Gwendolen comes to terms with the consequences of her personal choices, Daniel embarks on a journey of self-discovery and identity.
The novel is full of intriguing commentary, cultural insight, and reflection, pairing Eliot’s distinctive style with a shimmering social portrait. You’ll follow Daniel as he discovers who he really is, and by the end, you’ll be deeply moved by Eliot’s final and unforgettable novel.
George Eliot truly is an amazing writer, and you’ll surely think so too after diving into five of her best works. So, grab yourself a cup of tea, find the perfect reading spot, and prepare to get swept away by her storytelling. Laugh, cry, and most of all, enjoy these timeless classics loved by so many readers, even centuries later.
Loving the classics? Read all about the inspo for Pride and Prejudice here.
Find these books and more in Bookstr’s “Keeping It…Classic… Recs That Is” shelf on Bookshop.org.
