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Felix Holt

The Radical
3.71 goodreads logo

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( 4,307 ratings, 252 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Felix Holt by George Eliot is set in the period of the 1832 Reform Act, offering a rich exploration of social change and political reform through its complex characters. The story revolves around Felix Holt, an idealistic young man who stands against social injustice and inequality. Central to the novel are themes of morality, class struggles, and the pursuit of a better society, all woven into a narrative that captures the turbulence and transformation of the times.
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this novel if you appreciate stories that delve into social and political issues within a 19th-century English setting. The narrative explores themes of social class, politics, and personal integrity, centred around engaging and complex characters. If you're intrigued by tales that mix a keen observation of human nature with societal change, this might be a captivating read for you.

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When the young Harold Transome returns to England with a self-made fortune, he scandalizes the town of Treby Magna with his decision to stand for Parliament as a Radical. But, after the idealistic Felix Holt also returns to the town, the difference between Harold's opportunistic values and Holt's profound beliefs becomes apparent.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

When the young nobleman Harold Transome returns to England from the colonies with a self-made fortune, he scandalises the town of Treby Magna with his decision to stand for Parliament as a Radical. But after the idealistic Felix Holt also returns to the town, the difference between Harold's opportunistic values and Holt's profound beliefs becomes apparent.

Forthright, brusque and driven by a firm desire to educate the working class, Felix is at first viewed with suspicion by many, including the elegant but vain Esther Lyon, the daughter of the local clergyman. As she discovers, however, his blunt words conceal both passion and deep integrity.

Soon the romantic and over-refined Esther finds herself overwhelmed by a heart-wrenching decision — whether to choose the wealthy Transome as a husband, or the impoverished but honest Felix Holt.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Felix Holt by George Eliot is often praised for its insightful exploration of social and political themes in 19th-century England. Critics highlight Eliot's skill in creating rich, complex characters and her ability to weave them into a compelling narrative. The book is appreciated for its depth and its vivid portrayal of the social issues of the time, offering readers both an engaging story and a thoughtful commentary on society.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780140434354

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 25 May 1995

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Classics

Contributors:

  • Edited by Lynda Mugglestone
  • Introduction by Lynda Mugglestone
  • Notes by Lynda Mugglestone

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 33.0mm

Width: 128.0mm

Height: 197.0mm

Weight: 428g

Pages: 592

About the Author

George Eliot was born Mary Ann (Marian) Evans in 1819. After her mother died in 1836, Marian was her father's housekeeper, educating herself in her spare time. After moving to Coventry in 1841 she met progressive intellectuals and became managing editor of the Westminster Review in 1851. She lost her Christian faith and was alienated from her family, moving to London where she met the separated George Henry Lewes. They lived together until his death in 1878. During those years she wrote the fiction, journalism and philosophy she is remembered for under the pseudonym of George Eliot. Edited with an introduction and notes by Lynda Mugglestone

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