Silas Marner by George Eliot

I. Introduction George Eliot 1. her life 2. her marriage 3. her philosophy B. Silas as Parable:

II. The Themes Psychological 1. importance of the soul 2. search for identity 3. importance of love

II. The themes--Psychological importance of love Importance of work

II. The Themes Social Love of others vs love of money Marxist – what does the book say about money and power, who has it, who doesn’t, and why

The themes Archetypal / Universal – the religious and moral theme 1. Karma – morality and natural consequences 2. Nature 3. Religion (true religion vs false religion)

III. The Setting Lantern Yard Raveloe Squire Cass’ House The tavern Silas’ cottage

IV. The Characters—men’s moral trilogy A. Silas Marner B. Godfrey C. Dunsey

IV. The Characters—women’s moral trilogy D. Eppie E. Molly F. Dolly Winthrop

V. Symbolism The loom / weaving Nature (and natural stuff [insects, flora, etc) c. Gold (money and Eppie)

V. Symbolism Horses The hearth Eyesight The cottage and the open door Silas’ fits

VI. Conclusion George Eliot and the relation between intelligence, beauty, and morality The Relation between morality and joy Why Silas Marner is still a great book and still relevant today