How different is the squire from his sons in silas marner?

Answer 1

In George Eliot's "Silas Marner," the squire, Sir Christopher, embodies the traditional landowning gentry, characterized by wealth, social status, and a sense of entitlement. In contrast, his sons, notably Dunstan, exhibit a more reckless and irresponsible nature, often indicating a departure from the values of their father. While the squire maintains a facade of respectability, his sons are driven by greed and self-interest, ultimately leading to their moral decline. This generational difference highlights the complexities of class and character in the novel.