The Complete Works of Elizabeth Gaskell (eBook)

Elizabeth Cleghorn Gaskell, née Stevenson (1810–1865), was a prominent English novelist and short story writer during the Victorian era. Gaskell's literary pursuits are multifaceted, capturing the rapidly changing society in which she lived. With a keen eye for detail and a deep sense of empathy, her narratives often focused on the lives of the poor and the oppression of women, addressing themes of gender, class, and social justice thoughtfully and with nuance. Her first novel, 'Mary Barton: A Tale of Manchester Life,' published in 1848, marked her entrance as a significant voice in English literature, shedding light on the grim realities of the industrial working class. Gaskell's literary portfolio exhibits extensive range: from the heartrending 'Ruth' (1853), which tackles the plight of a fallen woman, to her lighter, comedic Cranford series (beginning in 1851), which provides an affectionate portrayal of a small rural town. Notably, 'North and South' (1854) juxtaposes the pastoral serenity of Southern England with the turbulent Northern industrial landscape, exploring the complexities of labor and class conflict. Gaskell's biographical work is exemplified in 'The Life of Charlotte Brontë' (1857), the first biography of Brontë, providing insightful and sensitive glimpses into the life of the esteemed author. Reflecting an eclectic mix of influences, including Romanticism, Realism, and Gothic literature, Gaskell's work remains a foundational pillar in the canon of 19th-century literature. The word 'complete' in the collection 'The Complete Works of Elizabeth Gaskell' denotes the totality of her oeuvre, which continues to captivate readers and scholars alike. Her literary style is marked by compassionate realism, rich characterisation, and a deep moral sensibility, rendering her works both engaging and educative.