Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The *bildungsroman*, or “novel of formation,” is a literary genre that focuses on the psychological and moral growth of the protagonist from youth to adulthood, often involving a period of disillusionment and eventual integration into society. Pioneered by works like Goethe’s *Wilhelm Meister’s Apprenticeship* (1795-96), the genre typically culminates in the protagonist’s self-realization and acceptance within a social framework. However, George Eliot’s *The Mill on the Floss* (1861), while possessing elements of the bildungsroman, significantly subverts its traditional trajectory. This essay will argue that Eliot intentionally dismantles the conventions of the genre, presenting a tragic narrative that emphasizes the limitations imposed by societal expectations and the impossibility of complete self-fulfillment for a woman in Victorian England.
The Subversion of Protagonist’s Journey
Traditional bildungsromans chart a protagonist’s journey towards self-discovery and societal integration. Maggie Tulliver, however, experiences a far more constrained and ultimately tragic arc. While she possesses a keen intellect and a passionate nature, her attempts at self-improvement and intellectual fulfillment are consistently thwarted by the rigid social norms of St. Ogg’s.
- Limited Agency: Unlike protagonists like Pip in *Great Expectations*, Maggie’s choices are severely limited by her gender and social standing. Her desire for education is hampered by her family’s financial difficulties and societal expectations.
- Failed Romantic Relationships: Her relationships with Stephen Guest and Philip Wakem are both marked by societal disapproval and ultimately lead to further isolation. The elopement attempt with Stephen, while representing a moment of agency, results in social ostracism rather than liberation.
- Lack of Self-Realization: Maggie doesn’t achieve a harmonious integration into society. Her final act of self-sacrifice during the flood, while noble, is a consequence of societal pressures and a lack of viable alternatives.
Challenging the Notion of ‘Formation’
The core of the bildungsroman lies in the protagonist’s ‘formation’ – their development into a mature, well-adjusted individual. *The Mill on the Floss* actively challenges this notion by portraying Maggie’s development as a process of increasing frustration and disillusionment.
- Internal Conflict: Maggie is perpetually torn between her passionate nature and the constraints of Victorian morality. This internal conflict prevents her from achieving the kind of self-possession typically found in bildungsroman protagonists.
- Emphasis on Societal Constraints: Eliot deliberately highlights the societal forces that shape Maggie’s destiny. The novel is less about Maggie’s internal growth and more about the limitations imposed upon her by her environment.
- Tragic Ending: The catastrophic flood and the simultaneous deaths of Maggie and Tom represent a complete rejection of the bildungsroman’s optimistic resolution. The conventional happy ending, signifying integration and fulfillment, is replaced by a devastating tragedy.
The Role of Setting and Social Context
The specific setting of St. Ogg’s and the broader Victorian social context are crucial to understanding Eliot’s subversion of the bildungsroman. The novel’s provincialism and the rigid moral codes of the community actively work against Maggie’s development.
| Bildungsroman Convention | Subversion in *The Mill on the Floss* |
|---|---|
| Protagonist’s journey to a cosmopolitan center | Maggie remains confined to the provincial setting of St. Ogg’s |
| Emphasis on individual agency and self-reliance | Maggie’s agency is consistently curtailed by societal expectations |
| Optimistic resolution and societal integration | Tragic ending and Maggie’s ultimate isolation |
The Narrative Voice and its Impact
Eliot’s omniscient narrative voice further contributes to the novel’s subversion. The narrator frequently intervenes to comment on Maggie’s situation and to critique the societal forces that contribute to her downfall. This intervention prevents the reader from fully identifying with Maggie as a typical bildungsroman protagonist.
- Authorial Commentary: Eliot’s direct commentary on the limitations faced by women in Victorian society underscores the novel’s critical stance.
- Psychological Realism: The detailed exploration of Maggie’s inner life, while sympathetic, doesn’t lead to a triumphant self-discovery but rather to a deepening sense of despair.
Conclusion
In conclusion, *The Mill on the Floss* is a powerful and deliberate subversion of the traditional bildungsroman. Through Maggie Tulliver’s tragic fate, Eliot critiques the limitations imposed by Victorian society, particularly on women, and challenges the genre’s optimistic assumptions about individual growth and societal integration. The novel’s enduring power lies in its unflinching portrayal of the constraints that can prevent individuals from achieving self-fulfillment, making it a complex and profoundly moving exploration of the human condition. It stands as a testament to Eliot’s literary skill and her commitment to social realism.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.