Silas Marner: Chapters 6, 8 & 10 Summary and Analysis
Chapter 6: The Robbery and the Rainbow
Silas’s Discovery and Despair
Silas Marner returns home to find his hidden gold stolen. His initial fear of supernatural intervention gives way to suspicion of his neighbors, particularly Jem Rodney.
The Rainbow Tavern and its Patrons
Silas seeks help at the Rainbow, but finds only the common folk, as the prominent citizens are at a dance. The tavern’s two rooms highlight the social hierarchy of Raveloe.
A Night of Arguments and Superstition
The tavern’s conversation revolves around mundane disputes and ghost stories, setting the stage for Silas’s dramatic entrance.
Silas’s Accusation and the Villagers’ Response
Silas’s frantic appearance initially leads to him being mistaken for a ghost. He accuses Jem Rodney, but the landlord vouches for Rodney’s presence in the tavern all evening.
Sympathy and Suspicion
The villagers become sympathetic to Silas and offer their assistance. Dowlas, the farrier, investigates the scene and offers to act as a deputy constable.
Chapter 8: The Aftermath and the Tinder-box
The Search for Clues and the Suspect
The villagers search for clues and suspect a peddler who had visited Raveloe. The mysterious tinder-box found at the scene fuels speculation.
Godfrey’s Dilemma and Dunsey’s Disappearance
Godfrey is distracted by Dunsey’s absence and the potential blackmail. He learns of Wildfire’s death and decides to confess to his father about the rent money.
The Squire’s Fury and Godfrey’s Evasion
Godfrey partially confesses to his father, hoping to deflect blame onto Dunsey. The Squire’s anger and Godfrey’s evasiveness further complicate the situation.
Godfrey’s Hope in”Favourable Chanc”
Godfrey continues to rely on luck to resolve his problems, hoping for an unforeseen event to save him from his predicament.
Chapter 10: Isolation and Community
Silas’s Despair and the Villagers’ Compassion
Weeks pass with no progress in the investigation. Silas remains inconsolable, and the villagers offer him support and pity.
Dolly Winthrop’s Kindness and Aaron’s Carol
Dolly Winthrop, a kind and compassionate woman, visits Silas with her son Aaron, offering him comfort and a Christmas carol.
The Cass Family Christmas and Godfrey’s Longing
The Cass family celebrates Christmas, and Godfrey anticipates the New Year’s dance and the chance to be with Nancy, while the threat of Dunsey’s return looms over him.