The Journals of George Eliot : Book Review

"The Journals of George Eliot" offers readers an intimate and captivating insight into the life and thoughts of one of the most celebrated novelists of the Victorian era, George Eliot. Throughout this collection of personal journals spanning the years 1854 to 1879, Eliot delves into her inner world, sharing her reflections, observations, and emotions.

It quickly becomes apparent that Eliot was a keen and astute observer of the world around her. Her journals vividly bring to life the social and political climate of the time, providing valuable insights into the experiences of women in Victorian society. With her sharp intellect and sensitivity, she presents a unique perspective on a wide array of topics, including literature, art, feminism, and religion.

What makes this collection truly exceptional is the raw and authentic nature of Eliot's writing. She fearlessly expresses her doubts, fears, and private musings, allowing readers to form a deep connection with both the woman behind the pen and the literary genius she went on to become.

Throughout the journals, Eliot also offers glimpses into her creative process and the challenges she faced as a writer. From grappling with self-doubt to navigating complex relationships with publishers and fellow writers, her entries provide valuable insights into the world of literature and the craft of storytelling.

"The Journals of George Eliot" is essential reading for fans of Eliot's work and anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of Victorian society and the life of an extraordinary woman. It stands as a testament to Eliot's brilliance as a novelist and thinker, offering a rare glimpse into the mind of one of the most influential writers of her time.

What are readers saying?

The Journals of George Eliot, written by the celebrated author herself, have received mixed feedback from readers. While some found the book insightful and enjoyed delving into Eliot's personal thoughts and experiences, others expressed disappointment due to the repetitiveness of the entries and a lack of engaging content.

Many reviewers appreciated the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of George Eliot as an individual through her journals. They found her reflections on her writing process and her observations on society and literature to be thought-provoking and insightful. These readers felt that the book provided valuable insight into Eliot's motivations and inspirations.

Conversely, some readers found the journals to be monotonous and reiterative. They felt that the entries lacked excitement and failed to capture their interest. Some critics also commented on the dense and complex writing style, which they found challenging to read and comprehend.

A recurring theme in both positive and negative reviews was George Eliot's struggle with her religious beliefs. Many readers appreciated her candidness in grappling with questions of morality and spirituality, considering it a captivating aspect of her journals. However, others felt that the excessive focus on this particular topic became tiresome and overshadowed other potentially interesting aspects.

Another point of contention among reviewers was the volume of the journals. While some readers appreciated the comprehensive nature of the collection, others felt overwhelmed by the sheer amount of material. For those unfamiliar with George Eliot's work, these journals may be viewed as excessively extensive and difficult to navigate, potentially causing confusion.

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