It get’s better in the sense that you get introduced to other (more interesting) characters, but not in the sense that a lot more happens. I’m 150 pages in. I remember nothing, but I’m pretty sure I read it the summer of '77!
I’m listening to the CD in the car - upwards of 20 CDs and there are two boxes tied together with a large ribbon. There are bits that I like, but I’m finding that I can only listen for so long before my mind wanders. Was she paid by the word? Hoping to stick it out for the discussion…
I waded into it but so far set it aside and haven’t picked it up again. I’m not sure i will.
I’m very reluctant to begin. My paperback copy can’t be found so instead I have to read it in the George Eliot omnibus that weighs at least 5 pounds ?. I have some overseas travel coming up so a library copy wouldn’t work.
You can download it for free from the Gutenberg Project.
I’ve got a free version from Kindle and my old paperback. Weirdly they’ve numbered the chapters differently so it’s a bit of an adventure to get them aligned. I like my paperback version because it’s full of footnotes explaining the references. It’s been a while since I’ve read a long-winded Victorian novel. After I felt fluent enough in German, I used to read English books at the library and my choices were mostly Victorian novels or Neville Shute. (Who I like a lot thankfully!)
^^ Thanks. Our library also has it as an e-book but I’d like keep that option as a last resort. I read the last few books online or as e-books. I’d prefer to read a physical book this time if I can get it. I may check the used books store to see if they have an old copy.
I’m not crazy about ebooks, either. I did find it at Barnes and Noble for $10. It’s one of their classic series for a lower price.
I got my used hardcover copy from the UK for under $8, shipping included. Am simultaneously thrilled and appalled about that.
Hmm, maybe we should have set this discussion for April 2021?
https://scroll.in/article/877966/why-im-still-reading-a-fat-novel-middlemarch-two-years-after-i-began-i-may-not-even-finish-it
I haven’t started the book yet, but the one thing that will keep me going is this: If I don’t read Middlemarch with all of you (some of you? two of you? last man standing?), then I will never read it. And I want to read it. Or more accurately, I want to have read it.
Years ago, I took a semester off from college and one of my professors told me to sit in on his class in order to “keep my head in the game.” Middlemarch was one of the books he taught. Life at the time didn’t allow me to read it in its entirety – I skimmed, and remember virtually none of it now – but I do remember being captivated by his lecture and the discussion that followed. The particulars, of course, have long fled my brain.
^ do you think we should reconsider this choice?
The discussions have been expanding and going so well do you think this will lose too many participants ?
Isn’t that there a by law addressing this special circumstance —— You know, @mary13 a group of dedicated readers, make sure you check this off your bucket list, by reading and discussing Middlemarch on the side? Isn’t it by law #325-78 ???
I have to admit I had no idea what this book was about until it got picked. I’ve read about it and skimmed several pages, and unfortunately it’s highly unlikely I will read it. But I’m not a long term participant in these discussions, so don’t go by me!
My take: I want to read Middlemarch and won’t on my own. garland and HarrietMWelsch both called it their favorite book. mathmom said she loved it. I haven’t started it - and probably should get to it. I also got the audio to go with it. I’ve noted with Victorian novels that I need to adjust my mindset or usual reading habits or something to get into the flow of the novel. Anyway, I trust those who’ve read it - in its entirety - and have given glowing reviews. I’ll be disappointed if we abandon the choice and hope those hesitant about it don’t give up too soon. It’s on so many many best lists.
That’s a helpful perspective, @ignatius. It’s a different sort of reading and it does require a specific mindset. As with a lot of novels from that period, the pleasures here (and the humor) can be subtle, especially at first. But they build up over time.
Somebody who knows the by-laws better than I do should absolutely correct me if this is wrong, but I don’t think it’s cheating to track down and have fun with the BBC version, from 1994. It’s flat-out gorgeous to look at, has some fab BBC actors, and might offer a smoother way in (or back in) for people who’re feeling a little daunted.
For clarification …
^ I’m not suggesting abandoning it, I’m wondering if a subgroup of us would want to tackle it aside from the normal selections.
I did read the first few pages, and clearly understand what some are saying about it,
@HarrietMWelsch, glad you mentioned a BBC adaptation,
I believe by law #325-78 clause A does allow all forms of “ smoother Ways in “ are allowed,
Motion moved, seconded and carried!
That’s a great idea. Anybody who doesn’t feel like tackling the book, but wants to hang with us (because we’re FUN), please watch the BBC production and join us for discussion. Readers can fill in any gaps that watchers might be curious about, and watchers can soak up the story in seven episodes with a glass of wine, rather than seven weeks with a 9 pt font.
I might go along with that! Also, it’s possible that after seeing the movie, the book will be easier to tackle.
ETA: It’s free on Prime Video.
Just added it to my watchlist!
Okay, cool! I do hope maybe the video might tempt folks to want to read the book, once you know where it is going. Eliot has so many great observations about human nature and how we treat each other, I’d love people to get a chance to read those. I do recognize that Victorian novels begin slowly. 
It is, for me, the best thing I’ve read on how to be a good person, in the sense of ethical to others. I really do look forward to a wonderful conversation.