Penggambaran Patriarki dalam Novel The Mill on the Floss karya George Eliot = The Portrayal of Patriarchy in Eliot’s The Mill on the Floss

This study aims to analyze the issue of patriarchy in George Eliot's The Mill on the Floss. This analysis specifically covers the forms of patriarchy and their impact on the lives of the main female character in the novel. The patriarchal system that places women in a subordinate position to men is an issue that continues to be debated today. Therefore, discussing this research to examine the various forms of patriarchal oppression depicted in literary works is important. This study uses a qualitative method with a descriptive presentation of the results. Feminist literary criticism theory and Sylvia Walby's concept of patriarchy were used. As the main character, Maggie is analyzed to reveal how representations of women are shaped in the text and to identify gender-based power dynamics reflected in the relationships between characters. The results of this study show that Maggie experienced various forms of patriarchy that limited her opportunities in education, limited choices, and subjected her to emotional abuse and rejection. This eventually leads to feelings of frustration, triggers conflict in her social life, and leads to a tragic end. This study raises awareness of gender inequality and encourages critical thinking about unfair power structures through self-improvement as a form of women's empowerment.

Keyword : patriarchy, gender inequality, feminist literary criticism, The Mill on the Floss.