Consider fatherhood in the novel, with particular reference to Squire Cass, Godfrey and Silas Marner

Authors Avatar

Ashish    Patel                                          English    Essay                                        28/04/2007

Consider fatherhood in the novel, with particular reference to Squire Cass, Godfrey and Silas Marner

                George Eliot wrote a book called “Silas Marner”. The story was set in the Victorian times when the market economy and industries were booming! The book was published in 1861, London, but George Eliot was concerned with the events from 1780s to 1820s about the fact that many did not read books written by women. “ The novel’s major theme, of loss and redemption through love, is embodied in the experience of its central character, Silas Marner” this is a theme, which is stated in the book. Class society is a key theme in the novel because it shows the rich being more superior to the peasants. Godfrey and Silas both have a role as a father figure, which is a common factor.

                We can say that Squire Cass is considered to be a bad fatherly figure in the novel. Squire Cass lives in the Red house and he is the greatest man in Raveloe also a rich landowner. He spends most of his time at the Rainbow inn, a place were wealthy men come to keep themselves occupied. The Squire is lazy, self-satisfied, and short tempered. Squire Cass made his children work and when their mother died he did not say anything to comfort them, he lacked in maternal influence. The Squire does not seem to care very much for his sons, only for his money. He allows his sons to do pretty much whatever they please, because he does not care what happens to them as long as his tenants are not involved. After their mother’s death the two boys lacked in love, care, attention, discipline and guidance, therefore they turned out rather ill. “I’ve been to good a father to you all – that’s what it is.” The Squire complains that he has been “too good a father” which is a lie for the reason that he has spoiled his sons. However he did support them in giving Godfrey and Dunstan the opportunities for a better future. They were sent to school for there education and they also had a warm place to live. Squire Cass and Silas Marner both loved a woman and lost them, which is a common factor.

Join now!

        Godfrey Cass is the eldest son of Squire Cass. He is a fine open-faced and good-natured but selfish and dishonest. “ The good-humoured, affectionate hearted Godfrey Cass was fast becoming a bitter man.” He began by rejecting the role of being a father to Eppie; he does not let his wife and daughter to live in his home, the Red house. To Godfrey, Molly and his daughter is his deepest and darkest secret. He did not want that baby with Molly instead he wanted to be with Nancy. Godfrey does not let Nancy know of his mistakes about the ...

This is a preview of the whole essay