"Mary Ann Evans (later known by the pen name of George Eliot) was born in 1819, the same year as Queen Victoria. In terms of intellect, she was way ahead of her time. Early on, Mary Ann displayed signs of superior intelligence, though her physical beauty was greatly lacking. Seeing it was not likely that his daughter would attract a mate, her father, Robert Evans, provided for her private tutoring beyond the age that was expected for females of that era. Mary Ann had no problem with furthering her education, and in fact loved reading and research. She was a quick learner and easily handled foreign languages, philosophy, theology and literature. In addition, she enjoyed music and art. To say the least, Mary Ann grew into an unusual young woman with the intelligence that she felt was akin to the intellect of men. It would seem that the lack of beauty that served to drive away potential mates created for the world a darling of literary genius." From the Introduction of GEORGE ELIOT LIVES by Freda M. Chaney, D.D.
"Empathy cannot be described. Rather, it is an experience of allowing oneself to move into the feelings of another without reflection of oneself. It is exemplified by Dorothea in George Eliot's novel, Middlemarch. Empathy is the escalator that moves a human being heavenward--up, up and beyond the binding self to something more Godlike. We could use a lot more empathy in our world." ~ Freda M. Chaney, KARMA ROAD: Getting Off the Round About I have returned from England rich with the sights, sounds, and scents of George Eliot's aka Mary Ann(e) Evans' countryside. We arrived in Nuneaton on 23 February and stayed for three days in the house where Eliot lived for over twenty one years of her life. This homestead, Giff House, and the surrounding countryside was also the setting for her novel, THE MILL ON THE FLOSS, which is predominantly autobiographical. I will be sharing photos so that you may travel with me from your favorite armchair as I offer the flavor of Eliot's "good old Griff!" and other exciting locations with you. I also have video footage to share. The interview with John Burton, Chair of the George Eliot Fellowship, went on for three days as we dashed about the Midlands sharing tidbits as Eliot enthusiasts do. I am deeply indebted to John Burton and his wife, Lynda, for taking their time to respond to my individual dreams of learning the more personal/local aspects of George Eliot so that I can pursue the publication of GEORGE ELIOT LIVES. To be continued.... (Freda)
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