What events contributed to the breakdown of George Meredith’s first marriage?

The breakdown of George Meredith’s first marriage to Mary Ellen Nicolls was driven by a combination of persistent financial hardship, professional disappointment, and the growing incompatibility of two highly strung, critical personalities.1

The couple faced significant economic instability, which forced them to rely on the support of Mary Ellen’s father, Thomas Love Peacock. This poverty, coupled with the emotional strain of their relationship, eventually led to a separation. During the summer of 1857, while living apart, Mary Ellen spent time in Wales with an artist friend of the couple, Henry Wallis.1

The situation reached a definitive end following the birth of a son in 1858; although the child was registered under Meredith’s name, he consistently denied paternity. Mary Ellen subsequently left for Capri with Wallis, effectively ending the marriage. Meredith later processed the trauma of this experience through his semi-autobiographical collection of poems, Modern Love, which explores the tragedy of marital infidelity.1