Autumn Events from Elizabeth Gaskell’s House
Posted
22nd August 2024
in blogsNnews, news
Crisp autumn leaves, warm woolly jumpers… and cosy nights in with other literature fans, thanks to a packed programme of online events at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House. There are just so many good things to look forward to this autumn!
This September our online events season celebrates Elizabeth Gaskell’s final literary masterpiece, Wives and Daughters. Then the rest of autumn features talks on everything from Unmarried Women to spooky vampire-themed discussions for Halloween. You can browse the full programme here.
Join us online on Wednesday 4 September to find out more about the famous evolutionary scientist and author of The Origin of the Species, Charles Darwin. Speaker Gordon Chancellor explores how Elizabeth based the character of Roger Hamley on Darwin and how knowledge of public debates around science influenced her work. For further info, click here.
We love a literary partnership, so we’re working with our friends at Jane Austen’s House to celebrate the 19th century ‘domestic novel’ online on Wednesday 18 September.
Many Georgian and Victorian stories focus on the minutiae of the daily lives of girls from the gentry or middle classes. There are many parallels between Austen’s classic novel Mansfield Park and Gaskell’s Wives and Daughters – both central characters are girls coming of age, observant of the people around them and recognised by others for their goodness.
But reading between the lines, what hints does each author give us about domestic life? What do they have to say about the limited social boundaries for women? And do they support or challenge the status quo?
You can join expert speakers Elizabeth Williams and Lizzie Dunford online for a revealing comparison of both novels. Here’s what a previous audience member said: “Elizabeth Williams conveyed her intimate knowledge of Gaskell’s life and works lightly and easily. I learnt a lot, quickly and effortlessly.” To book your place, visit Domestic Novel.
And if all that isn’t enough, we’re also hosting online workshops (see here for further information), reading groups (see here for further information) and our legendary monthly second-hand book sale. To see the full autumn calendar, click here.
So, sit back and relax in the comfort of your own home while literary experts share their passion and knowledge with you. What are you waiting for? Join us online this autumn!
