The Mill on the Floss · Chapter
VI: Illustrating the Laws of Attraction explained
Maggie Tulliver is introduced to the higher society of St.
What happens
Maggie Tulliver is introduced to the higher society of St. Ogg's, enjoying new leisure, music, and the attentions of Stephen Guest. Lucy Deane, happy in her engagement to Stephen, remains unaware of the growing tension between Stephen and Maggie. Philip Wakem's return is delayed, and Maggie's feelings become increasingly conflicted.
Themes in this chapter
Passion vs. Duty
Maggie and Stephen are caught between their growing attraction and their obligations to Lucy and social expectations.
Gender Roles and Limitations
Stephen's comments on women's proper functions and the bazaar illustrate the restrictive gender roles of the era.
Characters to notice
- Maggie Tulliver
Maggie is enjoying her new life in St. Ogg's, experiencing leisure and admiration, but is also increasingly aware of her attraction to Stephen Guest.
- Stephen Guest
Stephen's attentions to Lucy become more assiduous, yet he is secretly drawn to Maggie, avoiding being alone with her while longing for her presence.
- Lucy Deane
Lucy is happy and unsuspecting, enjoying Stephen's company more with Maggie present, and even envisions a future quartet with Maggie married to Philip.
- Philip Wakem
Philip is absent, having gone to the coast on a sketching expedition, delaying his reunion with Maggie.
Key passages
“Character, says Novalis, in one of his questionable aphorisms—'character is destiny.' But not the whole of our destiny.”
While our character shapes our fate, external circumstances also play a crucial role in determining our lives.
The narrator reflects on the interplay between inherent traits and external events in shaping Maggie's future.
“It is evident to you now that Maggie had arrived at a moment in her life which must be considered by all prudent persons as a great opportunity for a young woman.”
Maggie has reached a pivotal point in her life, one that sensible people would see as a promising chance for social advancement.
Maggie's entry into St. Ogg's high society is framed as a significant turning point.