Our special season of Wives and Daughters events begins with a special introduction to ‘the most underrated novel in English’.

Elizabeth Gaskell’s final book tells the story of young Molly’s response to her father’s new marriage and its impact on those around her. Set in a small English country town, the book is a literary masterpiece of wit and charm often compared to Jane Austen and George Eliot. Find out more about the context in which the book was written, including Victorian social change and Elizabeth’s personal life, with popular speaker Elizabeth Williams.

‘Elizabeth conveyed her intimate knowledge of Gaskell’s life and works lightly and easily. I learnt a lot, quickly and effortlessly.’ Audience member at previous Elizabeth Williams event.