George Eliot's novel, Middlemarch: Dorothea Brooke’s character as ‘a modern day Saint Theresa’

Dorothea Brooke’s character as ‘a modern day Saint Theresa’

Q. Critically examine Dorothea Brooke’s character as ‘a modern day Saint Theresa’ in Middlemarch.

Answer: Dorothea Brooke's character in George Eliot's "Middlemarch" has often been compared to Saint Theresa, but this comparison is complex and open to interpretation. While Dorothea does exhibit some qualities reminiscent of the historical Saint Theresa, such as her deep religiosity and desire for a meaningful life, it's important to critically examine this comparison in the context of the novel and the broader themes it explores.

Religious Devotion: Both Dorothea and Saint Theresa share a strong sense of religious devotion. Dorothea's decision to marry the elderly and scholarly Mr. Casaubon can be seen as an attempt to lead a life of piety and intellectual pursuit. However, her misguided idealism and her choice to marry Casaubon reveal a lack of practical judgment and a romanticized view of religious devotion. Saint Theresa, on the other hand, was a devout Catholic nun who dedicated her life to God through prayer and religious service. The depth of their religious commitment differs significantly.

Selflessness: Dorothea does display a selfless nature in her desire to improve the lives of others. She is genuinely concerned about the welfare of the tenants on her estate and becomes involved in various philanthropic efforts. Saint Theresa also displayed selflessness through her work in reforming the Carmelite order and her writings on spirituality. However, Dorothea's actions are often tainted by her own need for purpose and meaning, which can be seen as a form of self-indulgence.

Idealism vs. Realism: Dorothea's character is a study in the conflict between idealism and realism. She initially strives for a life of higher purpose but ends up entangled in a loveless marriage to Casaubon. Her idealism blinds her to the practical realities of the world. Saint Theresa, while a mystic, was also a shrewd and pragmatic reformer within the Catholic Church. She navigated the complexities of her time with a strong sense of purpose but without the same level of naivety.

Social Context: The comparison between Dorothea and Saint Theresa must take into account the different historical and social contexts in which they exist. Dorothea is a product of the Victorian era, where women's roles were limited, and her options for personal and spiritual fulfillment were constrained. Saint Theresa lived in a deeply religious and patriarchal society, where her religious devotion was more readily accepted and celebrated.

In conclusion, while there are some superficial similarities between Dorothea Brooke and Saint Theresa in terms of their religious inclinations and desire for a meaningful life, a critical examination of their characters reveals significant differences. Dorothea's character is more complex and flawed, reflecting the challenges and constraints of her time and circumstances. While she may share some traits with the historical saint, she is not a straightforward modern-day Saint Theresa, but rather a nuanced character who struggles with the complexities of her society and her own aspirations.

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