Chapter 11 How do the remarks on language on page 93 reflect the nature of George Eliot's intended audience? What do the descriptions of the party at the Squire's reveal about Nancy's character and the nature of Raveloe society?
Chapter 12 What causes Molly's death? What are some symbolic events that surround her daughter's entrance into Silas's home? How does he respond?
Chapter 13 What is Godfrey's reaction to the news that his child has been left an orphan? How can you tell whether the narrator approves? How is Godfrey's response contrasted with that of Silas?
Chapter 14 How does Silas raise Eppie? Are any aspects of his methods of parenting unconventional? What role does Dolly Winthrop play in the adoption's successful outcome?
Chapters 15 How does Godfrey respond to the fact that his child is reared by another?
Chapter 16 How have things altered in the 16 years between sections? What events have changed Eppie and Silas?
Chapter 17 What do we learn about the Casses' domestic life? Why has Nancy resisted the idea of adoption?
Chapter 18 What results flow from the drainage of the pond? How does Nancy react on learning Godfrey's secret? What points does the narrator wish to make in this scene?
Chapter 19 On what grounds does Eppie reject the Casses' offer of adoption? Could there have been a middle solution for the Casses, Eppie and Silas? How may social stratification have predetermined their responses? What may be Eliot's views about sudden changes in social station or inheritance? Would Gaskell have agreed?
Chapter 20 Are there ways in which this incident may have affected the Casses' marriage?
Chapter 21 What does Silas learn on his attempt to visit Lantern Yard? How is this of symbolic importance to the novel?
Chapter 22 What are some socially important features of the wedding celebration? What has been the significance of the Dolly Winthrop-Silas Marner subplot?
1. What are some features of the novel's closure? Do you feel it is a satisfactory resolution to the circumstances and problems raised by the novel? Does everyone receive his/her just deserts?
2. Are there any aspects of the plot or story that you feel may not have been fully treated? If so, why may this have been the case?
3. Do you believe the ending is "realistic"? If not, is this a flaw?
4. In what ways is this a specifically Victorian ending? What deeper points does the narrator wish to make?
5. Would such a plot be popular today, say, for a television drama? Why or why not?
6. Just a thought--why do you think the narrator and townspeople emphasize the advanced age and frailty of a 55-year old man?
7. What are some features of the book's design and structure? How would you describe the author's writing style?
8. After finishing Silas Marner, what important scenes of the book stand out most clearly in your memory?
<< Florence Boos'
Study Questions Index
Florence Boos' Faculty Page >>