Discover books similar to "Middlemarch"

Middlemarch cover

George Eliot

Middlemarch

3.96

"Middlemarch" is a classic novel written by George Eliot, the pen name of Mary Ann Evans. Published in 1871-72, the novel is set in the fictional English town of Middlemarch during the time of the Reform Bill of 1832. The novel follows the lives of several characters, including the idealistic and naive Dorothea Brooke, who marries the much older and pedantic scholar Casaubon in the hope of contributing to his great intellectual work. However, she soon discovers that his work is meaningless, and their marriage is an unhappy one. Meanwhile, the young doctor Tertius Lydgate moves to Middlemarch with the ambition of making important medical discoveries, but his marriage to the shallow and materialistic Rosamond Vincy leads him into financial difficulties and professional compromise. Throughout the novel, Eliot explores themes of ambition, idealism, marriage, and the role of women in society. She portrays the complexities of human relationships and the difficulties of achieving one's goals in a society that often values appearances over substance. The novel is also notable for its detailed and realistic portrayal of provincial English life, with its intricate web of social connections and political maneuverings. "Middlemarch" is often considered one of the greatest novels in the English language, praised for its deep understanding of human nature, its moral complexity, and its vivid and memorable characters. It is a rich and rewarding read for anyone interested in 19th-century literature, social history, or the human condition...

List of books similar to "Middlemarch":

The Mill on the Floss cover

George Eliot

The Mill on the Floss

Like Middlemarch, this novel by George Eliot explores the life of a young woman, Maggie Tulliver, as she navigates the societal expectations and personal relationships in her small rural town. The Mill on the Floss is a moving and thought-provoking examination of the human condition, with Eliot's signature psychological insight and richly drawn characters.

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Adam Bede cover

George Eliot

Adam Bede

Another classic by George Eliot, Adam Bede is a novel of moral complexity and social realism. Set in a rural English community, the story follows the lives of several characters, including the eponymous carpenter, as they grapple with issues of love, duty, and hypocrisy. Fans of Middlemarch will appreciate Eliot's nuanced portrayal of human relationships and her keen observations of provincial life.

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Daniel Deronda cover

George Eliot

Daniel Deronda

In Daniel Deronda, George Eliot explores themes of identity, nationalism, and social responsibility through the intertwined stories of two characters: the wealthy and privileged Gwendolen Harleth and the Jewish scholar Daniel Deronda. With its complex characters and sweeping social canvas, this novel offers a rich and rewarding reading experience for fans of Middlemarch.

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Jane Eyre cover

Charlotte Bronte

Jane Eyre

Like Middlemarch, Jane Eyre is a classic of English literature that explores the inner life of a young woman as she navigates a world of social and personal challenges. With its memorable heroine, atmospheric setting, and exploration of themes such as love, morality, and social class, Jane Eyre is a must-read for fans of Middlemarch.

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Middlesex cover

Jeffrey Eugenides

Middlesex

In this Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, Jeffrey Eugenides explores themes of identity, heritage, and family secrets through the story of Calliope Stephanides, a hermaphrodite who grows up in 1960s America. With its sweeping narrative and exploration of gender and sexuality, Middlesex offers a modern take on the social realism of Middlemarch.

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The Portrait of a Lady cover

Henry James

The Portrait of a Lady

In this classic novel of manners and morals, Henry James explores the life of Isabel Archer, a young American woman who inherits a fortune and moves to Europe. As she navigates the complex social world of expatriate society, Isabel must confront issues of love, independence, and personal freedom. Fans of Middlemarch will appreciate the novel's richly drawn characters and exploration of social themes.

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