George Eliot; a Critical Study of Her Life, Writings and Philosophy

Opening of the book

GEORGE ELIOT: A CRITICAL STUDY OF HER LIFE, WRITINGS AND PHILOSOPHY.

BY

GEORGE WILLIS COOKE

AUTHOR OF "RALPH WALDO EMERSON: HIS LIFE, WRITINGS AND

PHILOSOPHY."

1884

PREFACE TO SECOND EDITION.

The publication of a new edition of this work permits me to say that the essay on "The Lady Novelists," quoted in the seventh chapter, was written by George Henry Lewes. Its opinions, however, are substantially those of George Eliot, and they will be found in harmony with her own words. Confessing to the error, I yet venture to let the quotations, and the comments on them, stand as at first made. The three poems mentioned on page 75, were among the latest of the productions of George Eliot's pen.

It has been suggested to me that I have not done perfect justice to

George Henry Lewes, especially in what I say of his books on the

Spanish drama and the life of Goethe. I have carefully reconsidered what I wrote of him, and find no occasion for any change of

judgment, though two or three words might properly give place to others of a more appreciative meaning.

My book has met with much greater praise than I could have expected. Its errors, I have no doubt, are quite numerous enough; and yet I venture to think the main thought of the book is correct.

MARCH, 1884.

CONTENTS.

PREFACE

I. EARLY LIFE

II. TRANSLATOR AND EDITOR

III. MARRIAGE

IV. CAREER AS AN AUTHOR

V. PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

VI. LITERARY TRAITS AND TENDENCIES

VII. THEORY OF THE NOVEL

VIII. POETIC METHODS

IX. PHILOSOPHIC ATTITUDE

X. DISTINCTIVE TEACHINGS

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