# The Cloven Tree explained — The Mill on the Floss

> Chapter companion for The Mill on the Floss by George Eliot.

## What happens

Tom confronts Maggie and Philip during their secret meeting, leading to a bitter argument where Tom insults Philip's deformity and forbids further contact. Maggie defends Philip and accuses Tom of cruelty and narrow-mindedness, but ultimately agrees to end the relationship for her father's sake. After the confrontation, Maggie retreats to her room, torn between resentment and remorse.

## Themes in this chapter

### Family Obligation and Conflict

Tom asserts his authority as brother and protector, leading to a violent clash with Maggie over her relationship with Philip.

### Gender Roles and Limitations

Maggie laments that Tom has power because he is a man, while she can only submit or rebel.

### Passion vs. Duty

Maggie struggles between her love for Philip and her duty to her father and brother.

## Character check-ins

### Maggie Tulliver

Defends Philip against Tom's insults, but reluctantly agrees to end the relationship to protect her father.

### Tom Tulliver

Confronts Philip and Maggie, forbids their relationship, and harshly criticizes Maggie's conduct.

### Philip Wakem

Defends his love for Maggie and agrees to abide by her wishes, despite Tom's insults.

## Key lines

> I despise the feelings you have shown in speaking to Philip; I detest your insulting, unmanly allusions to his deformity.

Maggie tells Tom she hates the way he spoke to Philip, especially his cruel comments about Philip's physical disability.

_Maggie openly condemns Tom's cruelty and lack of empathy._

> Because you are a man, Tom, and have power, and can do something in the world.

Maggie argues that Tom's authority comes from being a man, which gives him opportunities she lacks.

_Highlights the gender inequality that limits Maggie's choices._

> I will submit even to what is unreasonable from my father, but I will not submit to it from you.

Maggie says she will obey her father even when he is unfair, but refuses to be controlled by Tom.

_Maggie distinguishes between filial duty and brotherly authority._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_mill_on_the_floss_se/chapters/v-the-cloven-tree
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_mill_on_the_floss_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_mill_on_the_floss_se/chapters