Sisters

"That is nice," said Celia, comfortably. Only I would rather you had such a sort of husband as James is, with a place very near, that I could drive to." (pg. 505)

This exchange between two sisters enables the plot of Middlemarch to come full circle. The book began with the relationship with two sisters and now concludes as they are settling into new roles. This comment Celia makes represents a timeless difference between the two sisters.

Not much is written by Eliot about Celia's marriage, and part of this is Celia discovers less (or was wiser initially). Dorthea was ambitions and in a unique way, had high expectations for her husband. Celia, on the other hand, expected to live a life of a traditional woman she knew. James, as well, seems satisfied in his own marriage. Even though James initially displayed interest in Dorthea, he never displays anything but brotherly concern towards his sister-in-law her. Both Celia and James viewed marriage as a societal responsibility and followed through with their expectations.

The statement above reveals Celia's feelings towards Dorthea. Although Dorthea could often be condescending towards her sister, Celia does not resent her. It almost seems as if Celia is so content with her own position that she feels that Dorthea should want to live her life.

Dorthea was miserable married to Casaboun, but also experiences a passionate affair and then a loving and intellectual relationship with Will. When Celia begs to hear the story, which readers have followed for several pages, Dorthea responds "If you knew how it came about, it would not seem wonderful to you." I think Dorthea is correct. The actions of Dorthea would seem imcomprehensible to Celia, and the Dorthea does even try to emotional battle Dorthea has undergone would be hard t

Eliot does not make it clear which sister she prefers. Celia seems satisfied, but her feeling towards James are no where as intense as the love Dorthea feels towards Will. Perhaps this an example a character hierarchy, but in this case, I think Dorthea actually experiences more. Although both sisters eventually end up happy, there is no clear answer as to which sister had taken the better route.