The Mill on the Floss · Chapter
III: Showing That Old Acquaintances Are Capable of Surprising Us explained
Maggie returns home to find that her aunt Glegg, initially harsh, now offers her shelter and support, while Tom remains rigidly unforgiving.
What happens
Maggie returns home to find that her aunt Glegg, initially harsh, now offers her shelter and support, while Tom remains rigidly unforgiving. Mrs. Tulliver conveys the family's mixed reactions, and Maggie, seeking independence, consults Dr. Kenn. She receives a letter from Philip Wakem, who professes his enduring belief in her and his love, despite the pain of her involvement with Stephen Guest.
Themes in this chapter
Family Obligation and Conflict
Aunt Glegg's offer of shelter contrasts with Tom's rejection, illustrating the tension between family loyalty and personal judgment.
Forgiveness and Redemption
Philip's letter expresses forgiveness and belief in Maggie, offering a path toward redemption despite her mistakes.
Passion vs. Duty
Maggie's struggle between her feelings for Stephen and her commitments to Philip and Lucy is central to Philip's reflections.
Characters to notice
- Maggie Tulliver
Returns home, is offered shelter by aunt Glegg, seeks advice from Dr. Kenn, and receives a letter from Philip Wakem.
- Mrs. Glegg
Surprisingly offers Maggie shelter and support, standing by family honor despite her earlier judgments.
- Tom Tulliver
Remains rigidly unforgiving of Maggie, driven by personal pride and a sense of demonstrated facts.
- Mrs. Tulliver
Conveys the family's reactions and laments the troubles, showing pity for Maggie.
- Philip Wakem
Writes a letter to Maggie expressing his belief in her truthfulness and his enduring love despite the pain.
- Dr. Kenn
Visits Maggie and advises her; she inquires about Philip Wakem.
Key passages
“If you were not to stand by your 'kin' as long as there was a shred of honour attributable to them, pray what were you to stand by?”
Family loyalty demands that you support your relatives as long as any honor can be claimed for them.
Mrs. Glegg's principle of clanship and family honor.
“Tom, like every one of us, was imprisoned within the limits of his own nature, and his education had simply glided over him, leaving a slight deposit of polish”
Tom, like all people, was confined by his inherent character, and his schooling only gave him a superficial refinement.
Narrator's commentary on Tom's rigidity and limited perspective.
“I believe in you; I know you never meant to deceive me; I know you tried to keep faith to me and to all.”
I trust you; I am certain you never intended to betray me, and that you strove to remain loyal to me and everyone.
Philip's letter expressing his unwavering faith in Maggie.