The Mill on the Floss · Character

Mr. Deane

A shrewd, self-made partner in Guest & Co., Mr. Deane measures men by pluck and dependability and gives Tom his first real foothold in the world.

supporting

Also known as sister Deane, Deane, uncle Deane

First appearance: vi the aunts and uncles are coming

As a supporting figure in The Mill on the Floss, Mr. Deane is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.

See Mr. Deane in vi the aunts and uncles are coming Book page

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Mr. Deane is Lucy's father and a man of business who has risen by his own wits, believing firmly that any young man who fails to rise has only himself to blame. He takes Tom on as a clerk, watches him for seven years, and finally offers him a share in the concern because he sees the right habits and no flashiness. His practical patronage gives Tom the means to redeem the Tulliver name and quietly reshapes the family's fortunes.

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See Mr. Deane in vi the aunts and uncles are coming

Character Web

24 connections

A slice of how Mr. Deane sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.

Relationship types

Other

Character groups

Major characters and family
Minor characters and background

+19 more in the full Character Web

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.

Setup
Escalation
Breaking point
Aftermath
Closing

In this excerpt, the emotional/psychological peak occurs when Maggie, despite her "heavy heart" and initial re…

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Relationships

Tom Tulliver
professional · positive
Uncle and employer, with Mr. How this plays out →
Tom Tulliver
professional · positive
Uncle and employer, with Mr. How this plays out →
Tom Tulliver
professional · positive
Uncle and employer, with Mr. How this plays out →

Relationship notes

How these ties play out is in the reading companion — open the free preview.

See Mr. Deane in vi the aunts and uncles are coming

In the story

Mr. Deane appears across 3 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

Tom Applies His Knife to the Oyster
Mr. Deane is a practical and successful businessman who advises Tom to start in a humble position and learn the realities of trade. He is cautious about recommending Tom for a place, emphasizing the need for proven ability.
VII: How a Hen Takes to Stratagem
Shows kindness to the Tullivers, finding Tom a temporary place in the warehouse and considering whether Guest & Co. might buy the mill.
Showing That Tom Had Opened the Oyster
Mr. Deane praises Tom's business qualities and offers him a share in the firm. He listens thoughtfully to Tom's wish to reclaim the mill and agrees to consider it.

Chapter companion notes

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See Mr. Deane in vi the aunts and uncles are coming