Silas Marner (1861) - George Eliot Audiobook

Written by George Eliot
Read by Andrew Sachs
Format: MP3
Bitrate: 64 Kbps
Unabridged

Length: 6 hrs and 42 mins
Original Release: Chivers Audio, 1999/BBC audio 2008
Reissue: Audible Studios
Release date: 01-29-08

A moral allegory about the redemptive power of love.

For 15 years the weaver Silas Marner has plied his loom near the village of Raveloe, alone and in exile, cut off from faith and human love, while amassing a hoard of golden guineas.

The Marner is embittered by a false accusation, disappointed in friendship and love and has retreated into a life alone with his loom and his gold. Silas hoards a treasure that kills his spirit until fate steals it from him and replaces it with a golden-haired foundling child. Where she came from, who her parents were, and who really stole the gold are secrets that permeate this moving tale of guilt and innocence.

It is also a finely drawn picture of early nineteenth-century England and of a simple way of life that was soon to disappear as England becomes industrialized .

Silas Marner is considered a masterpiece of literature authored by Marian Evans (1819-80) writing under her pen name of George Eliot. She is celebrated as one of England’s greatest novelists.

“I think Silas Marner holds a higher place than any of the author’s works. It is more nearly a masterpiece; it has more of that simple, rounded, consummate aspect. . .which marks a classical work.” –Henry James

“This classic story of guilt, innocence, and the power of love, with its diverse cast of characters, is a challenging audio production. The capable Andrew Sachs provides a steady, enjoyable reading. His light British accent carries the story, which is set in early nineteenth-century England. Faced with depicting young and old, gentlepeople and common folk, Sachs provides genuine characterizations. He handles the variety of dialects masterfully and with clarity. Most enjoyable is his vocalization of Eppie, a sweet and charming characterization that reflects the light she brings into Silas Marner’s life.” ….. AudioFile

This is not my rip. It is similar but not identical to the now dead, uploaded version.