Dorothea Brooke’s Journey of Self-Discovery in Middlemarch
Middlemarch (1871-1874) by George Eliot
Overview
George Eliot, who spent 21 years immersed in the society she depicted in her novels, crafted Middlemarch over several years. Educated at home and in various schools, she developed a strong evangelical piety before working as a subeditor for the Westminster Review. In Coventry, she encountered intellectuals who introduced her to new religious and political ideas. Eliot, who passed away in 1880, achieved considerable success with her published novels.
Themes
Education and Self-Discovery
Middlemarch examines the transformative role of education. Dorothea Brooke’s yearning for intellectual growth contrasts sharply with Rosamond Vincy’s superficial finishing school education. Rosamond’s initial admiration for Lydgate’s intellect mirrors Dorothea’s reverence for Casaubon’s scholarly pursuits. However, both women eventually confront the limitations of their idealized perceptions.
Self-Delusion and Growth
The novel’s central characters often construct idealized realities, leading to significant missteps and unhappiness. Their illusions eventually shatter, offering opportunities for growth and self-awareness. Some characters embrace pragmatism and find happiness, while others cling to their fantasies, perpetuating their misery.
Key Topics in the Fragment
Beauty and Social Expectations
Dorothea’s striking beauty, reminiscent of Italian Renaissance paintings, contrasts with Celia’s more conventional attire. As a young, intelligent, and wealthy woman, Dorothea faces societal pressure to marry, despite her strong opinions, which might deter potential suitors. Celia’s amiable nature makes her more appealing to men.
Marriage and Inheritance
The text highlights the importance of marriage for women in that era. Dorothea’s potential marriage carries significant implications for inheritance, with her future son poised to inherit family properties and wealth. The narrative also explores the complexities of Dorothea’s marital prospects, considering her intelligence and independent spirit.
Education and Intellectual Pursuits
Both Dorothea and Celia receive a good education from a young age. Dorothea’s intellectual curiosity and thirst for knowledge drive her to explore deeper meaning and understanding.
Main Characters
- Dorothea Brooke: An intelligent, wealthy young woman with aspirations for meaningful work. Rejecting material possessions, she pursues idealistic projects, such as improving housing for her uncle’s tenants. Her marriage to the much older Reverend Edward Casaubon proves disappointing, as he fails to appreciate her intellect. She finds a kindred spirit in Will Ladislaw, Casaubon’s cousin, and eventually marries him after navigating various obstacles, including a clause in Casaubon’s will that would disinherit her if she married Ladislaw.
- Celia Brooke: Dorothea’s younger sister, who embodies a more conventional and pragmatic approach to life.
- Mr. Arthur Brooke: Dorothea and Celia’s well-meaning but often confused uncle, known for his poor management of his estate.
- Sir James Chettam: A neighboring landowner in love with Dorothea, who eventually marries Celia.
- Rev. Edward Casaubon: A self-absorbed clergyman preoccupied with his scholarly research, which ultimately proves to be outdated and flawed. His marriage to Dorothea is loveless and unfulfilling.