George Eliot's Life, as Related in Her Letters and Journals. Vol. 3 (of 3)

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

43045

Title

George Eliot's Life, as Related in Her Letters and Journals. Vol. 3 (of 3)

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This volume chronicles George Eliot's final years, capturing her transformative journey to Spain, the profound personal loss of G.H. Lewes, and her subsequent marriage to John Walter Cross. Through intimate letters and journals, readers witness her resilience, enduring literary productivity, and deepening commitment to friendship and family amidst physical frailty.

Summary up to 500 words

Volume III of George Eliot's biography, titled 'Sunset,' chronicles the final chapter of her life from early 1867 to December 1880. The narrative begins with a spirited tour of Spain in 1867, where Eliot and her partner, George Henry Lewes, traverse the Pyrenees and explore cities such as Saragossa, Granada, and Seville. Despite travel hardships and occasional criticism regarding her work, the letters reveal Eliot's enduring intellectual curiosity and her ability to find profound joy in landscapes and culture. The tone shifts dramatically with the death of George Henry Lewes in 1878, leaving Eliot in a state of profound heart-loneliness. Although accustomed to solitude, she gradually re-engages with friends and society, finding solace in correspondence with figures like Madame Bodichon and Mrs. Congreve. The volume details her decision to marry her long-time friend, John Walter Cross, in May 1880. The wedding took place at St. George's, Hanover Square, followed by a honeymoon through France that included visits to Amiens and the Russian church. Eliot establishes a new domestic life at No. 4 Cheyne Walk in Chelsea while maintaining Witley as a summer home. Throughout this period, she continues her literary endeavors, completing 'The Impressions of Theophrastus Such' and publishing the final volume of 'Problems of Life and Mind.' The text is rich with correspondence offering an unvarnished look at her thoughts on philosophy, art, and human connection. The volume concludes with Eliot's reflections on mortality and her gratitude for the renewed springs of affection in her life, providing a substantial and emotionally resonant conclusion to her biography.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Biography
• Correspondence