George Elliot was the penname for the English novelist, poet and journalist, Mary Ann Evans (1819-1880). Although Evans was known for her work as an essayist, editor and critic, she chose to use the male pseudonym to allow for her fictional writing to be appreciated separately and taken seriously. Published in 1859, 'Adam Bede' is her first novel, and earned her critical acclaim. It revolves around the romantic lives of four characters in a rural community in the late 18th century. Featuring a new, specially written concise biography, this classic work is being republished in a high quality and affordable edition.