Felix Holt the Radical

Felix Holt The Radical is a novel written by George Eliot, first published in 1866. The story is set in the fictional town of Treby Magna, located in the Midlands of England, during the political upheaval of the 1830s. The novel follows the life of Felix Holt, a young man who returns to his hometown after years of living away. He is a passionate and idealistic radical who becomes involved in local politics and the struggles of the working class. Felix Holt's story is intertwined with that of Esther Lyon, a young woman who is engaged to the wealthy and conservative Harold Transome. Esther is drawn to Felix's political ideas and begins to question her own beliefs and values. The novel explores themes of social class, politics, religion, and gender roles, as well as the tension between tradition and progress.As Felix becomes more involved in the local political scene, he finds himself at odds with the corrupt and self-serving Transome family, who are determined to maintain their power and influence. The novel builds towards a dramatic climax as the tensions between the radicals and the conservatives come to a head.Felix Holt The Radical is considered one of George Eliot's lesser-known works, but it is still highly regarded for its insightful portrayal of 19th-century English society and its characters. The novel is a complex and nuanced exploration of the issues and conflicts of its time, and it remains relevant today as a commentary on the ongoing struggle for social justice and political change.Felix Holt, when he entered, was not in an observant mood; and when, after seating himself, at the minister's invitation, near the little table which held the work-basket, he stared at the wax-candle opposite to him, he did so without any wonder or consciousness that the candle was not of tallow. But the minister's sensitiveness gave another interpretation to the gaze which he divined rather than saw; and in alarm lest this inconsistent extravagance should obstruct his usefulness, he hastened to say.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.