Cranford (eBook)

Elizabeth Cleghorn Gaskell, née Stevenson (1810–1865), was a prominent Victorian author and biographer noted for her acute observation of Victorian society. Born in London and raised in Knutsford, Cheshire, Gaskell's early life in a rural town inspired much of her later work, including 'Cranford' (1851-1853), a witty and incisive portrayal of small-town life. Gaskell's writing often tackled social issues such as class division, industrialization, and gender inequality, which were groundbreaking themes for a woman writer at the time. Among her notable works are the industrial novel 'North and South' (1854) and the social novel 'Ruth' (1853), which addresses the harsh treatment of fallen women. Her biographical account of her friend, 'The Life of Charlotte Brontë' (1857), remains a seminal work in literary biography, offering a sympathetic yet honest portrayal of the 'Jane Eyre' author. Gaskell's ability to address complex social issues with a blend of humor, empathy, and stark realism has ensured her place in English literary canon, and her work continues to be celebrated for its detailed, lively characters and vivid depiction of Victorian life.