A Political Molecule by George Eliot
A Political Molecule is a novel by George Eliot that explores the political and social landscape of Victorian England through the eyes of its protagonist, Toby Merton. The story follows Toby's journey from his humble beginnings as a working-class man to his rise in politics and eventual appointment as Prime Minister. Along the way, he encounters various characters who challenge his beliefs and force him to confront the complexities of power and privilege. Through its vivid descriptions of life in Victorian England and its exploration of themes such as class, gender, and politics, A Political Molecule offers a compelling portrait of a society on the brink of change.
By George Eliot · First published 1872 · Genre: Political Fiction, Satire, Social Commentary · 1,538 words
First lines
The most arrant denier must admit that a man often furthers larger ends than he is conscious of, and that while he is transacting his particular affairs with the narrow pertinacity of a respectable ant, he subserves an economy larger than any purpose of his own. Society is happily not dependent for the growth of fellowship on the small minority already endowed with comprehensive sympathy: any molecule of the body politic working towards his own interest in an orderly way gets his understanding more or less penetrated with the fact that his interest is included in that of a large number. I have watched several political molecules being educated in this way by the nature of things into a faint feeling of fraternity. But at this moment I am thinking of Spike, an elector who voted on the side of Progress though he was not inwardly attached to it under that name.
What this Textopian page supports
A Political Molecule is listed on Textopian as a short story by George Eliot, dated 1872 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: George Eliot
- Date: 1872 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Political Fiction, Satire, Social Commentary, Philosophical Fiction, Character Study
- Length: 1,538 words
- Structure: 1 section, 12 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for A Political Molecule by George Eliot
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering A Political Molecule?
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- Where does Political Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Reformers by Rudyard Kipling
- Politics And The Mayfly by John Buchan
- Much Too Modern History by G. K. Chesterton
- The New Dispensation Ii by Rudyard Kipling
- The Symbolism Of Krupp by G. K. Chesterton
- Civilization by Ambrose Bierce
Genres
- Political Fiction — The narrative centers around political themes, exploring the role of individuals within the larger political system and their unconscious contributions to societal progress.
- Satire — The text employs humor and irony to critique societal norms, particularly focusing on the superficiality and self-interest of individuals like Spike.
- Social Commentary — The work provides insights into the social dynamics and class structures of the time, highlighting the intersection of personal ambition and public welfare.
- Philosophical Fiction — The narrative delves into philosophical questions about human motives, the nature of progress, and the individual's role in society.
Tags
politics · molecule · science · society · philosophy · power · government · ethics · human behavior · dynamics · relationships · influence