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Online Talk: Step into the Garden – The Language of Flowers in Cranford and other novels

Let your love of reading bloom and step into the (virtual) garden to discover the hidden language of flowers in some of your favourite Elizabeth Gaskell’s novels, starting with the much-loved Cranford. Many stories include a secret symbolism of flowers, which was both typically Victorian and unique to Elizabeth Gaskell’s work, from Wives and Daughters to Ruth.

What does it signify that Cranford’s Miss Matty, with her long-lost love, has the yellow primrose as her favourite flower? How does the Foxglove with its poisonous nature hint at the future danger in store for heroine Ruth?

Elizabeth Gaskell’s own love of gardening and flowers appears throughout her letters and fiction. ‘I believe the garden will be a great delight in our new house… and one may get out without a bonnet, which is a blessing’. Join speaker Caroline Malcolm-Boulton for the perfect summer treat.

‘Caroline is wonderful. She has a way of explaining things that’s both smart and totally approachable.’ Audience member

Wednesday 17 June, 7-8pm

£6 per ticket

What else do I need to know?

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Keep the Pages Turning

Elizabeth Gaskell’s House is run by Manchester Historic Buildings Trust (charity no. 1080606) and all money gained through private tours, talks, room hire and ticket sales goes towards the ongoing maintenance and running costs of the House. If you would like to support the House with an additional donation you can do so via this link.