Fatherhood in Silas Marner

Fatherhood in Silas Marner

Silas Marner was published in 1861 but is concerned with events from

1780's to 1820's. There is a key theme which runs throughout this

novel, fathers and there roles as fathers. The common factor in this

novel is that Silas and Godfrey both have a role as a father figure.

You could also include Squire Cass as a father figure.

First of all, the first father was Squire. He was the father of

Godfrey, Dunstan Cass and also some other children. Squire Cass lost

his wife in the past and the children had no mother to bring them up.

So Squire Cass brings them up easily as he can. He doesn't teach them

right from wrong or good or bad. He just gives them money to spend and

tells them to do what they want.

"But it was thought a weakness in the Squire that he had kept all his

sons at home in idleness." This quote was put in by the author to show

how Squire Cass controls his children. Squire Cass also doesn't

influence them in a positive manner. He doesn't spend any quality time

with his children and bond. He spoils his children by indulging them

with money, goods and services, but he doesn't give any love. He lacks

interest in his sons and his other children. He worries a lot about

his status, reputation and the name of his family. It is not that the

Squire has any time for his sons; it's that he wastes his time. He

goes to the rainbow Inn, drinks and haves a laugh. But he could spend

that time with his children.

Godfrey doesn't live Molly and his daughter. Godfrey married Molly

because they were drunk and they were first time lovers. Soon Molly

was addicted to alcohol and opium. The reason Godfrey didn't live...

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maternal input. Dolly advised Silas to punish Eppie, when she was

younger, if she did anything wrong. But Silas didn't slap her or beat

her because he loved her too much. But soon he understood that he is

helping her if he punishes her. He soon started to put her in coal

cupboard for naughty thing that she did.

Eliot tells us that fatherhood is not just about providing money, it

is about providing love and care and also time for your children. A

good father would comply with the above. Godfrey gives up, and he will

be unhappy for the rest of his life and live with the mistakes he

made. Eppie must be wondering why her father claimed her now and not

before. The answer to this helped her to make the decision to choose

between Silas and Godfrey.

"I want to stay with my father, he loves me and he bought me up."