A Long Time Ago In Florence

Some of George Eliot's writings are full of didactic, and highfalutin dialogues, but full of clever thinking. And here, another intelligent narration on Audible, to enhance understanding.
Eliot, as with many well-educated female authors of Victorian times, benefited from the hand of her father in her upbringing, after the death of her mother, in particular Godly [pastor] fathers.
No need for this educated lady to campaign to take over the male role; she respected God-given gender roles, and her mind had been expanded to encompass both sides of her feminine talents.
A beautiful phrase from chapter 23, as a teaching from the epistles: ...Tito was experiencing that inexorable law of human souls, that we prepare ourselves for sudden deeds by the reiterated choice of good or evil which gradually determines character....
And just as in Adam Bede, she gave the female protagonist some wonderful sermons, so she does the same in chapter 24 by the 'Dominican Friar'. Spiritual licence to put less Roman Catholic words coming from the pupit!
Romola tries to be a good wife, but she can't do it, her resentful emotions take over when she talks to her husband. It's a miserable thing when we can't find joy in a relationship that should be happy and loving.
I cannot see anyone enjoying this novel, who has not a knowledge and a commitment to God and His Word.

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