Victorians! discussion

Did we expect Casaubon to be quite as revolting as he turned out to be, his insecurities and jealousy about Will leading him to cause his own wife’s reputation becoming open to question. He finally decides to start on his great work (or on what he thinks is his great work), and is involving Dorothea in the process. While this was what she had wanted in a sense when she accepted his proposal of marriage, she is finding that it isn’t quite what she expected it to be, perhaps because she has now begun to see Casaubon for what he really is. One without much opinion or even strength for that matter since he seems unable to take any criticism of his work. But he does want Dorothea to continue his work, apparently trusting her more than any other to do this, but now because she has seen him for what he is, she is somewhat reluctant where she would not have been at the start. His disapproval of Will and of her proposal to make good what she feels he has unfairly lost, brings to light more of his true character, though here I think it is Casaubon’s personal envy that is the cause more than any thoughts on past injustices. But he ends up committing the worst injustice of all with his codicil made from his perspective to ‘protect’ his wife, but the words of which only end up pointing an accusatory finger at her. Sir James’ indignation is justified while Mr Brooke seems to react in his characteristic manner. But Dorothea herself I think took it rather well, and shows the strength of her character as against the weakness of Casaubon’s.

While Casaubon’s death has put Dorothea in a predicament, it does prove fortunate for Mr Farebrother who finally has a living that can enable him to give up on playing for money, and even marry. (Lydgate has may be made up for his previous ‘betrayal’ of Mr Farebrother by recommending him over Mr Tyke in this case.) But in the latter quarter, the poor man’s hopes are thwarted for he confirms that Mary Garth for whom he had affections will think of no one but Fred, though she will not accept him till he makes something of himself either.

As expected, the blow to Fred on Mr Featherstone’s will is proving to be to his benefit for at least he has completed his education. He is even prepared to take the cloth, since there is little else he thinks he can do, but of course, Mary’s answer has put a stop to that and rightly so, for as she says, Fred will be unsuited to it. Will Caleb Garth put into action his plan of involving Fred in his increasing business? (Now Stone Court may be in his charge too.) Perhaps that will turn out to be the answer/opportunity Fred needs to his woes.

Fred isn’t of course the only one facing difficulties with his profession. One who is much more decided and ambitious is doing so too, and expectedly for Lydgate is putting into practice innovations which while feel to him very basic but turn out to be ones that his fellow practitioners see as proof of his arrogance rather than knowledge. The clashes he’s had with some of them aren’t helping either, nor is his association with Mr Bulstrode, who might be giving him an opportunity to put into practice his ideas in the new hospital, but the venture will receive little or no support from any of the others. Luckily he has managed to convince Dorothea to help with finances, but will that be enough? Is enough of Middlemarch positively disposed towards him?

At home, things are moving along okay but not entirely well with Rosamond not valuing his profession as he does, and not showing the interest (even if passive) that he perhaps wants, and more subtly in the background money troubles beginning to crop up, with one bill at least coming up for payment. Will this lead to trouble in the home? It certainly will for Lydgate personally. (She kind of makes me think of Eustacia Vye from Return of the Native).

Troubles are also creeping up for Mr Bulstrode. We learn in this segment a little of his background, of how he worked his way up from errand boy to successful banker. But the secrets of his past also come to light after his purchase of Stone Court when Mr Raffles, Joshua Rigg’s step-father seems to know him from the past and is blackmailing Mr Bulstrode, who had apparently already paid him off in the past, banishing him to America. And now he’s trying again. And the past secret involves Will Ladislaw’s family!

Poor Mr Brooke is having his share of trouble too. After his various attempts at propaganda through the newspaper under Will’s charge, he seems set to take the plunge so to speak and contest the election, but his initial attempts at speech-making turn out a failure between his extra glass of Brandy, and a hostile audience.

Will finds Mr Brooke’s attitude to him changed without knowing why, and contemplates his own course of action, though making himself worthy of Dorothea’s hand is upmost in his mind. But what when he finds out about Casaubon’s will?

Troubles in love and marriage (also money), politics, and even a spot of blackmail. Both expected and unexpected turns of events in Middlemarch this week!

I'm still half way to the read and stopped at Casaubon's death. Actually I wanted to repose there without moving on, because I got this uneasy feeling. I'm sure Casaubon died making Dorothea tied to some bond. I just feel it, and I don't yet want to find that out!

Sounds incredible, isn't it, how fiction can affect you? 😊

Piyangie wrote: "I'm still half way to the read and stopped at Casaubon's death. Actually I wanted to repose there without moving on, because I got this uneasy feeling. I'm sure Casaubon died making Dorothea tied t..."

True, it certainly does. There were points in Watership Down where I just didn't want to read on for fear of what might happen. I did finally and was glad that I did too.

Casaubon has indeed put a yoke on Dorothea by making a codicil to his will barring any marriage between Dorothea and Will. Now we can be sure what drove Casaubon on - jealousy and suspicion. Poor Dorothea! She is rightful to be indignant. I'm beginning to like who she is turning to be. Her character is certainly turning out to the better.

Interestingly however, the knowledge of this condition on her makes Dorothea's heart more warm towards Will. Has Dorothea had feelings for Will which she was unaware of? This certainly is very interesting.

There were many developments in this segment. Like you've said Mallika, the thwarted hopes of Fred indeed has proved beneficial for him. Without continuing to be an idle, he was forced to complete his education, and now he has managed to accomplish that end by earning his degree. It is still a question how Fred will earn his bread and butter for he himself. Although he might considering taking the vows, he knows that he is utterly unsuitable for such a position. On top of it there is Mary's disapproval to consider. I too hope that Mr. Garth will put to action his intention of taking Fred under his wing.

Mr. Lydgate still faces hostilities of the Middlemarch fellow professionals and druggists. However, there are some who are beginning to appreciate the doctor for his knowledge and professionalism. That seems a bit of a consolation. However, Rosamond's lack of appreciation for his profession stings Lydgate. Poor fellow!

On top of his professional troubles, there is also personal trouble in the form of a pressing bill payment. How would he relieve this? Who would help him? Not Vincy's of that I'm sure. Perhaps Mr. Bulstorde will be the saviour, but I suspect there is some contempt in Lydgate towards Mr. Bulstrode despite his working with him.

Piyangie wrote: "Casaubon has indeed put a yoke on Dorothea by making a codicil to his will barring any marriage between Dorothea and Will. Now we can be sure what drove Casaubon on - jealousy and suspicion. Poor D..."

I think she did like him quite a bit when they first spoke in Rome, and her feelings are certainly getting stronger. But Casaubon's yoke means any feelings on both sides will end up in check for no one is going to view them with any sympathy
.

Piyangie wrote: "Mr. Lydgate still faces hostilities of the Middlemarch fellow professionals and druggists. However, there are some who are beginning to appreciate the doctor for his knowledge and professionalism. ..."

The Vincys I don't think are in much of a position to help-they are living comfortably but aren't financially particularly well off--in no position to do anything for any of their children.

Lady Clementina wrote: "I think she did like him quite a bit when they first spoke in Rome, and her feelings are certainly getting stronger. But Casaubon's yoke means any feelings on both sides will end up in check for no one is going to view them with any sympathy ..."

This is where Dorothea's true character is tested. I would really love to see how she would rise up to this challenge. Right now we can sense her indignation of that injustice. If I understand her properly, she wouldn't cow under such an unfair condition. But at the same time, she wants to do so much good with her wealth. Helping the needy are one of her life goals, and this might work as a possible reconsideration of giving up wealth. Also she will have to take in to account the character of Will Ladislaw. He is a proud man and although he simply adores Dorothea, it is not clear how he will take up with this new knowledge.

I agree with you on the Vincys, Lady C :). I now recall how Mr. Vincy made sure to Rosamond that he will not in anyway to help their positions if she weds Lydgate. So there was the hint. Besides they didn't gain any financial benefits by Featherstone's will as hoped either.

Mr. Farebrother is rewarded by the Lowick living. This was one happy development. I've just come to like this queer Vicar. Lydgate does atone for his favouring Mr. Tyke over Mr. Fearbrother on the previous occasion. He is happy in his lifted position, for now he can take better care of his dependents and stop playing whist which seems unbecoming in a clergyman.

However, he is still into one disappointment. With his increased income, Mr. Farebrother was able to contemplate a marriage and it is evident that he is fond of Mary Garth. But here his wish is thwarted, for Mary heart is firmly set on Fred even though she would not marry him till he make something for himself.

Mr. Bulstorde it seems to be haunted by a past ghost. :) What the banker has been before he settled in Middlemarch is not known yet, one can sense there is a guilty past of him that he is anxious to keep buried. The name "Ladislaw" appears in some connection to him, and this is quite an intriguing development. It looks like there is a past connection between Mr. Bulstrode and Will's family. I'm really enjoying these strange and intriguing connections Eliot is making in the story. Seems like there will be many unexpected twists and turns ahead!

Piyangie wrote: "Mr. Farebrother is rewarded by the Lowick living. This was one happy development. I've just come to like this queer Vicar. Lydgate does atone for his favouring Mr. Tyke over Mr. Fearbrother on the ..."

Mr Farebrother with the Lowick living and Fred losing his inheritance are both positive for each of them. Fred I hope will be finally able to stand on his own feet rather than on his supposed expectations. I did feel for Mr Farebrother re Mary but I think her feelings were fairly clear from early on, as were Fred's. Incidentally, they are the one couple in this book who don't seem love their imaginary pictures of the other--each knows what the other is, and doesn't see them for anything else.

Piyangie wrote: "Mr. Bulstorde it seems to be haunted by a past ghost. :) What the banker has been before he settled in Middlemarch is not known yet, one can sense there is a guilty past of him that he is anxious t..."

There certainly are. This book too was published in parts, so readers would have had an exciting time waiting to see what secrets were revealed or twists the plot took in the new instalments.

Lady Clementina wrote: "Incidentally, they are the one couple in this book who don't seem love their imaginary pictures of the other--each knows what the other is, and doesn't see them for anything else...."

Fully agree with you there, Mallika. And Fred and Mary are my favourite couple in the story. 😊

Lady Clementina wrote: "Did we expect Casaubon to be quite as revolting as he turned out to be, his insecurities and jealousy about Will leading him to cause his own wife’s reputation becoming open to question. He finally..."

I'm sorry, I've been really busy in the past few days. But if I can still leave a few comments late....

Piyangie wrote: "Sounds incredible, isn't it, how fiction can affect you? 😊.."

This is a sign of the author's superiority!

Piyangie wrote: "Casaubon has indeed put a yoke on Dorothea by making a codicil to his will barring any marriage between Dorothea and Will. Now we can be sure what drove Casaubon on - jealousy and suspicion. ..."

This codicil shows the extent of Casaubon's smallness of mind!

Gabrielle wrote: "This codicil shows the extent of Casaubon's smallness of mind! ..."

Exactly, Gabrielle. Dorothea is sadly paying a heavy price for her foolishness.

Lady Clementina wrote: " But does Casaubon want Dorothea to continue his work, apparently trusting her more than any other to do this, ..."

I wonder if Casaubon entrusts the task of finishing his work to Dorothy because he believes in her abilities or for some other reason: Wouldn't Casaubon have realized that he ruined his life and wouldn't he want to ruin Dorothy's life too? (in addition to the codicile) in making her life as miserable as his?
Vade retro Casaubon!

Gabrielle wrote: "Lady Clementina wrote: "Did we expect Casaubon to be quite as revolting as he turned out to be, his insecurities and jealousy about Will leading him to cause his own wife’s reputation becoming open..."

Any time you wish :)

Gabrielle wrote: "Piyangie wrote: "Casaubon has indeed put a yoke on Dorothea by making a codicil to his will barring any marriage between Dorothea and Will. Now we can be sure what drove Casaubon on - jealousy and ..."

Agreed. In his own insecurity, he has make the codicil without a single thought to the possible consequences for Dorothea herself even though he doesn't suspect her intentions in any way.

Gabrielle wrote: "Lady Clementina wrote: " But does Casaubon want Dorothea to continue his work, apparently trusting her more than any other to do this, ..."

I wonder if Casaubon entrusts the task of finishing his ..."

In some weird way, she is the only one he thinks will be able to do his work--perhaps that she'd simply follow his instructions without questioning them, or so he thinks. He is terrified by criticism as we've seen from previous reactions to critics of his monographs, though he should be mature enough to realise that no work is without its critics.

Lady Clementina wrote: " Casaubon should be mature enough to realise that no work is without its critics...."

I guess I'm really mature, then! :D

Lady Clementina wrote: "Poor Mr Brooke is having his share of trouble too. ..."

Sorry, LadyC, I have no pity for Brooke for putting himself in that unpleasant position of contested speaker. I have no pity, because he put himself there, and he put himself there because of his own self-importance.
At the beginning of the book, one may wonder why GE created a character like Brooke. Finally, what is his interest in the story, except that he lets Dorothée marry Casaubon and invites Will, apart from the fact that I find he's similar to a certain brave and ridiculous Mr. Jourdain from The Bourgeois Gentilhomme de Molière?
And then, when the chapter on election speech comes up, that's where Brooke's interest finally comes in. Since Middlemarch is a painting of characters, Brooke has a special place in this painting.
He's as imbued with himself as a politician! Please excuse my personal opinion, ladies, but I do not hold in my heart the men who practice this profession. (If your husbands are politicians, I would be honored if they would fool me about the character I suppose they are!) In short, to get back to Brooke, he decides to be a politician without knowing anything about the people in his own region. Every man in this book has his faults and qualities - except Featherstone and Casaubon who have only qualities! D But the only one who gets into politics is Brooke who is indifferent to the living conditions of his own farmers and who has no opinion on anything and would certainly not want to have any for fear of having to defend them.

Piyangie wrote: "Mr. Bulstorde it seems to be haunted by a past ghost. :) What the banker has been before he settled in Middlemarch is not known yet, one can sense there is a guilty past of him that he is anxious t..."

Yes, yes, yes...

Gabrielle wrote: "Lady Clementina wrote: "Poor Mr Brooke is having his share of trouble too. ..."

Sorry, LadyC, I have no pity for Brooke for putting himself in that unpleasant position of contested speaker. I have..."

Mr Brooke seems more the comic image of a politican rather than a more serious one, so one can't really even criticise him seriously. He seems to live in a world of his own, and somehow I find I can't criticise him seriously for his faults because he seems buffoonish