The social structure in Raveloe is hierarchical, with the landed gentry, led by Squire Cass, at the top. The village comprises various social groups ranging from the wealthy to the very poor. The rich live indulgently, and the poor accept their lot, seeing the rich's lifestyle as justified. The poor benefit indirectly from the rich through leftover food, illustrating a community where social classes coexist with a degree of mutual acceptance.

Eliot depicts a rigid class system in Silas Marner. She critiques a class hierarchy in which power and privilege undermine the moral fiber of upper-class families like the Casses and honest and upright lower-class people like Silas take the fall for upper-class misdeeds.

At the New Year's Party in Silas Marner, the social hierarchy is evident. Upper-class villagers, invited by the Squire, enjoy dining and dancing, highlighting their privileged status. In contrast, lower-class villagers are merely spectators, seated at the margins to observe and gossip about the upper class. This division underscores the rigid social structure in Raveloe, where lower social levels are excluded from full participation in such "great" occasions.

Weavers are considered suspicious in "Silas Marner" due to their contrasting worldviews and origins compared to the agrarian villagers. They are seen as outsiders with mysterious backgrounds and skills, living solitary lives that make them seem foreign and untrustworthy. Silas Marner's pale appearance and unknown origins contribute to this suspicion. The villagers' distrust only begins to lessen when Silas adopts Eppie, showing a more compassionate side.

In Chapter 11 of Silas Marner, Eliot explores class dynamics during the New Year's Eve dance at the Red House. The Red House symbolizes class distinction, with Squire Cass representing the upper class. Godfrey's secret marriage to a lower-class woman complicates his desire to marry Nancy, highlighting the constraints of class. The narrative suggests that higher social status does not guarantee happiness, as demonstrated by Eppie's choice to stay with Silas rather than pursue a higher social standing.

Silas Marner can be interpreted from a Marxist perspective as a critique of the class system in 19th-century England. Silas, positioned at the social bottom, is initially shunned and exploited by the upper class, represented by characters like Dunstan and Godfrey Cass. However, the narrative subverts these power dynamics as Silas regains his gold and keeps Eppie, highlighting the limitations of the ruling class's ability to oppress the working class.

The people of Raveloe view the linen weavers with suspicion and distrust. As provincial villagers, they are wary of outsiders and things they do not understand. The weavers, seen as "pallid and undersized" compared to the "brawny country-folk," carry mysterious bags, heightening local superstitions. Additionally, the villagers are uneasy because they know little about the weavers' origins or backgrounds, leading to their marginalization and isolation within the community.

The villagers find Silas Marner suspect because he is an outsider with a mysterious background. He arrives in Raveloe after being falsely accused of robbery and shunned from his previous town. His reclusive nature, unusual appearance, and practice of creating medicinal concoctions, which the villagers perceive as magical, further contribute to their suspicion. These traits make him appear strange and alien to the community, which values routine and familiarity.

Squire Cass in Silas Marner is characterized by his authoritative and negligent nature. As a father, his main weaknesses include a lack of emotional support and guidance for his sons, leading to their irresponsible behavior. His indulgence in luxury and disregard for moral discipline create a dysfunctional family environment, ultimately contributing to the downfall of his household.

Godfrey Cass, the wealthy son of Squire Cass, will not acknowledge his daughter Eppie though she is raised in the home of Silas Marner. The squire's second son Godfrey has inherited the farm that Silas had purchased with his gold. Once Godfrey discovers that he has married a woman from a lower social class, Nancy Lammeter by name, he becomes ashamed to acknowledge Eppie as his daughter. In addition to this dilemma, Dunsey Cass turns out to be related to him by blood. Though Dunsey had died before Eppie was born and left a wife behind, it turns out that she is his half-sister.