Silas Marner

Louie Marner George Eliots third book is titled The Weaver of Raveloe. In 1861 it was published. The work which appears to be a straightforward account of a linen weaver is remarkable for its powerful realism and its complex handling of a range of subjects including religion industrialization and community. The story takes place in the first decade of the nineteenth century. A weaver named Silas Marner belongs to a little Calvinist congregation in the Northern English slum district called Lantern Yard. While caring for the critically ill deacon he is wrongly charged with embezzling money from the congregation. A pocket knife and the finding of the bag that once held the money in Silas home both point to his involvement. Since Silas had handed William Dane his pocket knife just before the crime was committed there is a strong suspicion that William has set Silas up. Silas and the others draw lots in the hope that God will guide the proceedings but the results show that Silas is guilty. The intended spouse of Silas breaks off their union and chooses to wed William instead. Silas flees Lantern Yard and the city for an uncharted rural location since his life has been destroyed and his heart has been broken.