Wives and Daughters
“Wives and Daughters” by Elizabeth Gaskell is a notable work published by Wordsworth Editions in 1999, comprising 624 pages. This novel, widely regarded as Gaskell’s masterpiece, explores the dynamics of two families in nineteenth-century rural England, focusing on the intricate family relationships that are tested by romantic entanglements.
Readers will find a rich tapestry of characters and social commentary as Gaskell vividly depicts the late 1820s and the transformative forces at play during this period. The narrative balances serious themes with a comedic tone, offering acute observations of various characters, including a feudal squire, his progressive son, and their complex interactions. With an introduction and notes by Dinny Thorold from the University of Westminster, this edition provides context for understanding the literary and historical significance of Gaskell’s work.
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With an Introduction and Notes by Dinny Thorold, University of Westminster
Gaskell’s last novel, widely considered her masterpiece, follows the fortunes of two families in nineteenth century rural England. At its core are family relationships – father, daughter and step-mother, father and sons, father and step-daughter – all tested and strained by the romantic entanglements that ensue.
Despite its underlying seriousness, the prevailing tone is one of comedy. Gaskell vividly portrays the world of the late 1820s and the forces of change within it, and her vision is always humane and progressive.
The story is full of acute observation and sympathetic character-study: the feudal squire clinging to old values, his naturalist son welcoming the new world of science, the local doctor and his scheming second wife, the two girls brought together by their parent’s marriage…
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