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Explore how Eliot presents Eppie's feelings about her life with Silas Marner in this extract - Edexcel - GCSE English Literature - Question 6 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 6
Explore how Eliot presents Eppie's feelings about her life with Silas Marner in this extract. Eppie said, "We’ve been used to be happy together every day, and I can... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explore how Eliot presents Eppie's feelings about her life with Silas Marner in this extract - Edexcel - GCSE English Literature - Question 6 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
a) Explore how Eliot presents Eppie's feelings about her life with Silas Marner in this extract.
Answer
In this extract, Eliot presents Eppie's feelings toward Silas Marner as profoundly affectionate and loyal. Eppie expresses a deep connection to Silas, stating that she cannot imagine happiness without him. This reflects her sense of belonging and the familial bond she shares with Silas, whom she regards as her true father. She articulates her feelings with statements like, "I’ll cleave to him as long as he lives," demonstrating her unwavering commitment to him.
Eppie's dialogue reveals her determination to maintain her choice despite the societal expectations that might suggest otherwise. When Silas voices concern about her potential regret, Eppie responds with certainty: "I can never be sorry, father." This defiance not only affirms her love for Silas but also highlights her rejection of a life that could have been filled with wealth and status. Instead, she prioritizes emotional fulfillment over material gain, stating, "I like the working — folks."
Moreover, Eppie's passionate defense of her bond with Silas is contrasted with Nancy's more pragmatic perspective. Nancy acknowledges Eppie's feelings but emphasizes the duty Eppie owes to Godfrey, her biological father. This juxtaposition further underscores Eppie’s conviction and deep connection to Silas, reinforcing the theme of chosen family versus biological ties in Eliot's narrative.
Through Eppie's words and actions, Eliot illustrates not just a daughter's love, but a profound recognition of the importance of loyalty and emotional ties over conventional familial expectations.
Step 2
b) Explain how Nancy is presented elsewhere in the novel.
Answer
Nancy is presented in the novel as a complex character who embodies both compassion and duty. Initially portrayed as gentle and nurturing, her relationship with Godfrey illustrates her struggle between personal desires and societal obligations.
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Nancy’s relationship with Godfrey Cass: Nancy shows unwavering support for Godfrey, despite his flaws and secrets. Her love for him is evident, but the tension in their relationship highlights her emotional resilience and capacity for empathy. She often serves as the moral compass for Godfrey, contrasting with his actions and decisions.
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What Nancy says and does: Throughout the novel, Nancy's dialogues often reveal her awareness of social expectations and her desire to fulfill her role as a wife and mother. Her insistence on propriety and her deep understanding of the implications of Godfrey's decisions reflect her strength of character and depth of understanding. In her conversations, Nancy demonstrates wisdom and the ability to navigate the complexities of relationships, showcasing her as a pivotal figure in the narrative.