In George Eliot's "Middlemarch," a character expresses a preference for women who are more overt in their efforts to attract attention. He suggests that a certain level of charm and seduction is appealing, indicating that a woman's playful or flirtatious demeanor enhances her attractiveness. He believes it is exciting when women pursue men with determination, implying that a challenge in attraction holds value.

This perspective reflects traditional views on gender roles in relationships, emphasizing that men often enjoy the game of courtship and a woman's active involvement in that pursuit. The character’s statement reveals his belief that a woman’s willingness to engage and entice enhances both the dynamics of attraction and the overall romantic experience.