Discuss the role of the narrator. What is the purpose of having a narrator tell the story in the past tense? With whom does the narrator sympathize? What values does the narrator uphold? What does the narrator ask for from the reader?

In what sense is The Mill on the Floss a spiritual novel?

How does Eliot use water imagery? Does this imagery relate to the Floss? What does the Floss symbolize?

Is Mr. Tulliver a tragic character? Is he a tragic hero?

Discuss the Dodsons as a group. Are their values upheld?