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In Chapter 2 Silas Marner’s good fortune improves - Edexcel - GCSE English Literature - Question 6 - 2017 - Paper 2
Question 6
In Chapter 2 Silas Marner’s good fortune improves. Gradually the guineas, the crowns, and the half-crowns, grew to a heap, and Marner drew less and less for his own... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In Chapter 2 Silas Marner’s good fortune improves - Edexcel - GCSE English Literature - Question 6 - 2017 - Paper 2
Step 1
Describe how Silas Marner’s relationship with money evolves:
Answer
Silas Marner’s relationship with money evolves significantly throughout Chapter 2 as it transforms from a mere means of survival to an all-consuming obsession. Initially, Marner works tirelessly for long hours and hoards coins, illustrating his desire for security and independence. The repetitive act of counting and accumulating money becomes not just a habit but an integral part of his existence, showcasing how the passion for wealth can overshadow personal relationships and emotional fulfillment.
As the chapter progresses, money symbolizes isolation for Marner; it isolates him from the community and forges a deeper separation from human connections, as illustrated by his transformation where he becomes absorbed in the satisfaction that counting his earnings brings. His internal conflict highlights the extent to which this obsession alters his priorities and perception of happiness, depicting money as a double-edged sword that brings both satisfaction and despair.
Step 2
Discuss the significance of repetition in Marner’s actions:
Answer
Repetition plays a crucial role in illustrating Marner's obsession with accumulating wealth. The text emphasizes the repetitive nature of his labor and coin counting. This repetition reflects not only a routine but also a compulsion, suggesting that Marner's fixation on his hoard becomes a replacement for genuine emotional connection and affection. Moreover, the language used—such as 'repeating' and 'repetition'—emphasizes the mechanical aspect of his existence, transforming Marner into a mere automaton focused solely on wealth accumulation, detached from the joys of life and human interactions.
Step 3
Analyze the emotional implications of Marner’s hoarding:
Answer
Marner’s hoarding has profound emotional implications, indicating a deep-seated psychological need for control and security in his tumultuous life. The gold coins, instead of being a source of joy or stability, become a representation of his profound loneliness and emotional desolation. The act of hoarding also hints at a longing for something intangible—perhaps connection or love—that Marner has buried beneath layers of desire for material wealth. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes evident that his fixation on gold denies him the very essence of what it means to be human, leading to a tragic irony where the pursuit of comfort results in further isolation and despair.