Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Keywords
Romola; George Eliot; Gender Roles; Victorian Literature
Department
English
Major
Creative Writing
Abstract
George Eliot’s fifteenth century romance Romola follows the coming of age and independence of the titular character, an Italian noblewoman during the Renaissance. This essay examines the development of the relationship between Romola and her husband Tito’s common law wife, Tessa, specifically through the impact of Tito’s personal failures on both women. Throughout the novel, Romola struggles with her failed marriage, her need for personal connection, and Tito’s poor treatment of Tessa. Using the knowledge gained from her experiences and Tito’s poor behavior as an example, Romola transforms herself into the proper husband figure for Tessa: a provider, protector, and companion.
Faculty Mentor
Constance Fulmer
Funding Source or Research Program
Summer Undergraduate Research Program
Presentation Session
Session D
Location
BPC 191
Start Date
23-3-2018 4:30 PM
End Date
23-3-2018 4:45 PM
Included in
Romola: The Failure of a Husband and Triumph of a Wife
BPC 191
George Eliot’s fifteenth century romance Romola follows the coming of age and independence of the titular character, an Italian noblewoman during the Renaissance. This essay examines the development of the relationship between Romola and her husband Tito’s common law wife, Tessa, specifically through the impact of Tito’s personal failures on both women. Throughout the novel, Romola struggles with her failed marriage, her need for personal connection, and Tito’s poor treatment of Tessa. Using the knowledge gained from her experiences and Tito’s poor behavior as an example, Romola transforms herself into the proper husband figure for Tessa: a provider, protector, and companion.