The Mill on the Floss

Edinburgh; London: William Blackwood and Sons , 1860. First edition. Cloth. Good. 8" by 5". None. The complete set of this highly sought after work from prolific author, George Eliot, 'The Mill on the Floss'. First edition. Sadleir 816 a; Carter Variant B. With the original publishers' catalogue to the rear of volume three, and all volumes featuring their original half titles. Like other novels by George Eliot, The Mill on the Floss articulates the tension between circumstances and the spiritual energies of individual characters struggling against their environment. "The two main themes of the novel, growing up and falling in love, lend themselves to amusement, but it is stunted growth and frustrated love that are emphasised." Commentators have often focused on the constant rejection of Maggie's talents and mannerisms by her family and society. Even the cultural norms of her community deny her intellectual and spiritual growth, according to Elizabeth Ermarth, "They are norms according to which she is an inferior, dependent creature who will never go far in anything, and which consequently are a denial of her full humanity." Complete in three volumes. In embellished cloth bindings, with gilt lettering to the spines. Externally, lightly rubbed, with slight wear to the extremities and spines. Very light marks to the front boards. Some straining to the hinges, but still holding firm. Internally, generally firmly bound, with instances of spotting, and handling marks. Binder's label to the rear hinge. Good