Her profile as well as her stature and bearing seemed to gain the more dignity from her plain garments, which by the side of provincial fashion gave her the impressiveness of a fine quotation from the Bible,-or from one of our elder poets,-in a paragraph of to-day's newspaper.
In George Eliot's "Middlemarch," the protagonist's presence is accentuated by her simple attire, which stands out against the typical provincial style. This contrast adds to her dignity and elegance, suggesting that her character is worthy of admiration and respect. The author uses vivid imagery to convey how her plain clothing enhances her overall impression, making her appear more significant in the context of her surroundings.
The comparison of her appearance to a profound quote underscores the idea that her essence transcends superficiality. Just as a powerful quotation can resonate deeply within the text of a modern newspaper, her character commands attention and evokes a sense of reverence, highlighting the enduring value of authenticity over ostentation.