The George Eliot Library
Books & Literature
About
The George Eliot Library invites listeners into the quiet company of one of England’s most observant storytellers, where the smallest choices of ordinary lives reveal uncommon depth. Through complete readings of George Eliot’s novels and tales, this podcast lingers among village streets, restless minds, and the tender bonds that shape human character. Unhurried and reflective, it offers a listening experience attuned to sympathy, moral insight, and the enduring beauty of thoughtful prose. A library of voices meant not merely to be heard, but to be understood.
Episodes
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 5th Chapter I - In the Red Deeps
A chance meeting in the Red Deeps between Maggie and Philip revives their complex relationship. Their dialogue explores themes of friendship, understanding, societal pressures, and the sacrifices of youth.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 5th Chapter II - Part i Aunt Glegg Learns the Breadth of Bob's Thumb
This episode covers Part i of Chapter II of The Mill on the Floss. Tom plans a commercial venture to increase his savings, consulting his father and relatives. His friend Bob Jakin helps facilitate the business dealings.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 4th Chapter III - Part i A Voice from the Past
This episode covers Part i of Chapter III of Book 4 of The Mill on the Floss. It details young Maggie's difficult life, her longing for understanding, and a gift that briefly brightens her solitude.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 4th Chapter III - Part ii A Voice from the Past, cont'd
This episode explores a young soul's spiritual journey as she finds strength in renunciation and a new faith. The changes in her life are observed by those around her, influenced by hope, fear, and family obligations.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 4th Chapter II - The Torn Nest is Pierced by the Thorns
This episode covers Chapter II of 'The Mill on the Floss,' detailing the Tulliver family's struggles with adversity, honor, and diminishing fortunes. Despite the gloom, Maggie's bonds with her parents endure.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 4th Chapter I - A Variation of Protestantism Unknown to Bossuet
Chapter 1 of Book 4 of The Mill on the Floss explores the Dodsons and Tullivers' family life, characterized by adherence to tradition and respectability over deep faith or passion.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 3rd Chapter IX - An Item Added to the Family Register
In Chapter IX of The Mill on the Floss, a miller faces family obligations and difficult truths, drawing comfort from his lifelong home. The ancient family Bible records a significant event, reflecting a mix of defiance and loyalty within a…
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 3rd Chapter VIII - Daylight on the Wreck
In Chapter VIII of The Mill on the Floss, Mr. Tulliver revisits his mill, reflecting on his losses while his family deals with diminished fortunes and uncertain futures.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 3rd Chapter VII - How a Hen Takes to Strategem
Chapter VII of The Mill on the Floss focuses on Mr. Tulliver's slow recovery as the family mill faces sale. Mrs. Tulliver attempts to negotiate with Mr. Wakem, revealing the complex emotions of pride and resentment among the family.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 3rd Chapter VI - Tending to Refute the Popular Prejudice against the Present of a Pocket-Knife
Chapter VI of The Mill on the Floss details a painful public sale that leaves a household bare. An old acquaintance arrives with a fortune, offering friendship that challenges past grievances.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 3rd Chapter IV - A Vanishing Gleam
Chapter IV of Book 3 of The Mill on the Floss, presented by The George Eliot Library, depicts Mr. Tulliver's emerging consciousness, family discussions about finances, and the somber anticipation of future burdens.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 3rd Chapter V - Tom Applies His Knife to the Oyster
This episode covers Chapter V of Book 3 of The Mill on the Floss. Young Tom Tulliver seeks advice from his uncle Deane regarding employment opportunities in the face of his family's financial difficulties, grappling with his education's li…
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 3rd Chapter III - Part ii The Family Council, cont'd
In this episode, "The Mill on the Floss Book the 3rd Chapter III - Part ii The Family Council, cont'd," family financial troubles lead to disputes over duty, honor, and loyalty. Tom and Maggie confront relatives, and Aunt Moss's arrival co…
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 3rd Chapter III - Part i The Family Council
In this episode, the Tulliver family gathers to address their financial distress. The discussion touches on kinship, pride, and the need for practical solutions as the children are informed of the family's altered situation.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 3rd Chapter II - Mrs Tulliver's Teraphim, or Household Gods
This episode covers Chapter II of Book 3 of The Mill on the Floss, where the Tulliver children return home to their family's financial ruin. They witness the presence of a bailiff and the sorrowful dispersal of their household treasures, w…
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 3rd Chapter I - What Had Happened at Home
The episode covers chapter I of Book 3 of The Mill on the Floss, detailing Mr. Tulliver's struggles after a lost lawsuit and Maggie's return due to illness. Her presence offers comfort to the family.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 2nd Chapter VII - The Golden Gates Are Passed
In this episode, Tom and Maggie, now young adults, learn of a significant family misfortune. This news marks the end of their youthful hopes and illusions as they depart from their childhood home into a world filled with loss and sorrow.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 2nd Chapter VI - A Love-Scene
This episode covers Chapter VI of Book 2 of The Mill on the Floss. It focuses on Tom's injury, the resulting companionship between him and another youth, and Maggie's display of affection and honest speech, highlighting themes of love, pit…
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 2nd Chapter V - Maggie's Second Visit
This episode of The George Eliot Library covers Chapter V of Book 2 of 'The Mill on the Floss,' detailing the complex relationship between two boys, Maggie's growing sympathy, and themes of youthful affection and fear.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 2nd Chapter IV - ''The Young Idea''
This episode delves into the contrasting dispositions of two schoolboys, their developing friendship, and their youthful ideas of heroism within the context of a strict educational system.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 2nd Chapter II - The Christmas Holidays
Chapter II of Book the 2nd of The Mill on the Floss covers the Christmas holidays at Dorlcote Mill, where festive cheer is tinged with familial tension. Mr. Tulliver's concerns about water rights and legal disputes cast a shadow over the c…
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 2nd Chapter III - The New Schoolfellow
In The Mill on the Floss, Book 2, Chapter III, Tom Tulliver encounters his new schoolmate, Philip Wakem. Their initial conversation reveals shared interests in drawing, history, and sport, leading to the hesitant formation of a friendship.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 2nd Chapter I - Part II Tom’s ''First Half'', cont'd
This episode of The George Eliot Library delves into Book 2, Chapter 1, Part II of 'The Mill on the Floss,' continuing the story of young Tom Tulliver. It highlights his moments of reprieve with his sister Maggie, finding charm and distrac…
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 2nd Chapter I - Part I Tom’s ''First Half''
This episode covers the beginning of Tom Tulliver's time at Reverend Stelling's new school. It details his difficulties adapting to the strict teaching methods, particularly in Latin and mathematics, and explores the contrast between his o…
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 1st Chapter XII - Mr and Mrs Glegg at Home
This episode of The George Eliot Library, "The Mill on the Floss Book 1 Chapter XII," lovingly depicts the ancient town of St. Ogg's and the intimate life of Mr. and Mrs. Glegg. It highlights their domestic squabbles, contrasting temperame…
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 1st Chapter XIII - Mr Tulliver Further Entangles the Skein of Life
Chapter XIII of The Mill on the Floss, Book 1, details the complex family dynamics and reconciliation efforts between the Tullivers and Dodsons, influenced by pride and societal expectations.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 1st Chapter XI - Maggie Tries to Run away from Her Shadow
In this episode, Maggie, facing family disapproval, runs away to find gypsies. Her hopes are dashed by reality, leading to a tearful return home, aided by a stranger.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 1st Chapter X - Maggie Behaves Worse Than She Expected
In Chapter X of The Mill on the Floss, a playful afternoon among cousins devolves into jealous mischief, resulting in a child falling into muddy distress near the pond. The ensuing anxiety and search highlight the tender vulnerabilities of…
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 1st Chapter IX - To Garum Firs
Chapter IX of The Mill on the Floss details a family's preparations for a visit, showcasing childhood dynamics and family tensions. The arrival at Garum Firs presents a mix of rustic scenes and solemnity, underscored by underlying family d…
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 1st Chapter VIII - Mr Tulliver Shows His Weaker Side
Chapter VIII of The Mill on the Floss features Mr. Tulliver dealing with financial pressures. He displays both determination and affection as he navigates family obligations and his love for his children.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 1st Chapter VII - Part ii Enter the Aunts and Uncles, cont'd
Chapter VII, Part ii of The Mill on the Floss details a child's impulsive act and the resulting family response. Discussions also touch upon plans for a boy's education amidst family conversations.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 1st Chapter VII - Part i Enter the Aunts and Uncles
Chapter VII of Book 1 of The Mill on the Floss features the Dodson sisters' visit, marked by familial criticisms and affectionate concerns. Amidst the genteel decorum, Maggie's impulsive decision hints at her spirited nature.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 1st Chapter V - Tom Comes Home
Chapter V of The Mill on the Floss depicts Tom's return home and his gift to Maggie, revealing their sibling bond. Their shared childhood memories by the Round Pool evoke themes of love and belonging.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 1st Chapter VI - The Aunts and Uncles Are Coming
Chapter VI of The Mill on the Floss details the Tulliver family's preparations for an Easter gathering, highlighting traditions and rivalries. The chapter also depicts children's diversions and Tom's adventures with Bob Jakin.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 1st Chapter III - Mr Riley Gives His Advice Concerning a School for Tom
Mr. Tulliver seeks Mr. Riley's advice on educating his son Tom, aiming for a future beyond the mill. Mr. Riley recommends Reverend Stelling, an Oxford-educated clergyman, for Tom's schooling.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 1st Chapter IV - Tom Is Expected
This episode covers Chapter IV of Book 1 of The Mill on the Floss, focusing on a young girl's anticipation of her brother's return and her connection to the mill and its inhabitants.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 1st Chapter I - Outside Dorlcote Mill
Chapter 1 of Book 1 of The Mill on the Floss introduces Dorlcote Mill on the River Floss, set against a backdrop of rural industry and natural beauty. The scene includes observations of country life and a child's fascination with the mill.
- The Mill on the Floss Book the 1st Chapter II - Mr Tulliver, of Dorlcote Mill, Declares His Resolution about Tom
This episode covers Chapter II of Book 1 of "The Mill on the Floss," focusing on Mr. Tulliver's decision regarding his son Tom's education and the contrasting personalities of his children, Tom and Maggie.
- Adam Bede Epilogue
This episode of The George Eliot Library discusses the epilogue of Adam Bede, focusing on Adam's anticipated return home on a June evening, as he reflects on past sorrows, illness, and memories.
- Adam Bede Chapter 55 - Marriage Bells
Chapter 55 of Adam Bede covers the marriage of Adam and Dinah in Hayslope, followed by a glimpse into their peaceful domestic life as they await the return of a significant figure.
- Adam Bede Chapter 53 - The Harvest Supper
Chapter 53 of Adam Bede describes a harvest supper attended by farm laborers, characterized by shared food, drink, and a mix of heartfelt conversation and subtle melancholy.
- Adam Bede Chapter 54 - The Meeting on the Hill
Chapter 54 of Adam Bede features a meeting between Adam and Dinah on a hill, filled with tender hope and solace. The episode reflects on past sorrows and present affection, confirming their deep union.
- Adam Bede Chapter 51 - Sunday Morning
In Chapter 51 of Adam Bede, Sunday morning at the cottage provides a backdrop for Dinah and Adam's interactions. Lisbeth's coaxing reveals underlying feelings, leading Adam to reflect on marriage prospects and Dinah's devotion.
- Adam Bede Chapter 52 - Adam and Dinah
In Chapter 52 of Adam Bede, Adam visits Dinah at the farmhouse. They have a heartfelt conversation exploring their love, spiritual beliefs, and the path divine guidance may reveal.
- Adam Bede Chapter 49 - At the Hall Farm
Chapter 49 of Adam Bede, set at the Hall Farm, depicts the unfolding of rural life and family dynamics on an autumn afternoon. Dinah experiences a solemn inward call, prompting a mixture of affection and apprehension from those around her…
- Adam Bede Chapter 50 - In the Cottage
Chapter 50 of Adam Bede, "In the Cottage," details a tender conversation between Adam and Dinah during a morning walk. Their discussion reveals deep affection and unspoken sorrows, set against humble domestic surroundings.
- Adam Bede Chapter 47 - The Last Moment
Chapter 47 of Adam Bede, from The George Eliot Library, describes a public procession, Dinah Morris offering comfort, and the arrival of a horseman with a symbol of reprieve.
- Adam Bede Chapter 48 - Another Meeting in the Wood
Chapter 48 of Adam Bede features a quiet meeting in a wood between two men. They discuss their shared past, repentance, regret, and the possibility of reconciliation.
- Adam Bede Chapter 46 - The Hours of Suspense
Chapter 46 of Adam Bede finds the protagonist in a state of anxious anticipation, awaiting news from prison. He eventually meets a woman, and their parting is marked by forgiveness.
- Adam Bede Chapter 45 - In the Prison
In Chapter 45 of Adam Bede, a visitor provides comfort and prayer to a condemned young woman in a prison cell. The visitor patiently encourages a confession, bringing a sense of hope and mercy into the despairing atmosphere.