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An idealistic, working class man encourages social and political change in a small English town. Felix Holt, The Radical, by George Eliot, is set against the Reform Act of 1832, which influences the novel’s main storyline. It centers on a local election that is tainted by growing corruption and violence.
About the author
George Eliot (1819–1880), born Mary Ann Evans, was an English writer best known for her poetry and novels. She grew up in a conservative environment where she received a Christian education. An avid reader, Eliot expanded her horizons on religion, science and free thinkers. Her earliest writings included an anonymous English translation of The Life of Jesus in 1846 before embracing a career as a fiction writer. Some of her most notable works include Adam Bede (1859), The Mill on the Floss(1860) and Silas Marner.
Summary
Felix Holt is an endearing but opinionated Radical, who returns to Treby Magna just as the wealthy landowner, Harold Transome, announces his bid for election. It marks the beginning of a tumultuous time as unethical players seek to undermine the voting process.
Treby Magna is a small English community that’s home to Felix Holt and Harold Transome. Both men have returned after stints abroad with Harold eager to elevate his status in the political realm. He seeks election to a county seat as a Radical, which surprises the residents. The election process becomes a point of contention as Felix considers some of Harold’s methods unethical. Despite his pure motivations, Felix is roped into the election day chaos, leading to an unexpected outcome.
George Eliot’s works often explore morality as well as political and personal ethics. In Felix Holt, The Radical these issues are evident with characters attempting to navigate the political landscape. Felix and Harold have different values but are connected to the same cause.
With an eye-catching new cover, and professionally typeset manuscript, this edition of Felix Holt, The Radical is both modern and readable.
