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Silas Marner By George Eliot

Decent Essays

Within the book Silas Marner by George Eliot, there are different depictions of religion. One faith chooses to focus wholly on God and his power to determine the lives of the people, whereas the other faith chooses to value people’s actions over how often they attend, or worship at church. Eliot describes the two differing religions as having flaws as well as virtues. However, Silas is inherently different at both locations Lantern Yard and Raveloe. How do his relationships differ in these two places, and what kind of importance do these relationships have on the religion of the region? Furthermore, is it also a question that is it religion that is responsible for forming relationships or is it that relationships are key to defining the type of religion practiced. These are some of the questions that will be explored in the following passages.
The first depiction of religion is seen in Lantern Yard and is described as narrow minded and closed to society. While everyone is involved in the faith, it is solely based around worshipping God and overlooks the community relationships that strengthen faith. It does not require a community of people or families, merely “weaker followers” that can be overpowered and disposed as needed. This ideology can be seen when Silas is quickly excommunicated for a crime that he did not commit without a hearing or anything. To William, his long time friend, it didn’t matter that Silas had been a loyal follower and good friend for nine years; the

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