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A Novel Introduction

If you’ve never read a novel by Elizabeth Gaskell, a visit to her former home is the perfect place to be inspired.  And when you visit Elizabeth Gaskell’s House during Manchester Literature Festival you will be able to book a special ticket

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Pink roses in the garden

Cousin Phillis

‘“I loved him, father!” she said at length, raising her eyes.’ Cousin Phillis by Elizabeth Gaskell, 1863-64 Cousin Phillis is the perfect length – somewhere between a short story and a novel – and a precursor to Elizabeth Gaskell’s masterpiece Wives and

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19th century black and white print of mill workers

Life in Manchester – Libbie Marsh’s Three Eras

'How long is it since you were a beauty?' Life in Manchester - Libbie Marsh's Three Eras, 1847 Life in Manchester – Libbie Marsh’s Three Eras was one of Elizabeth Gaskell’s earliest works and was published under the pen-name ‘Cotton Mather Mills,

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Cranford illustration women at table

‘Cranford is in possession of the Amazons.’

'In the first place, Cranford is in possession of the Amazons... whatever does become of the gentlemen, they are not at Cranford.' Best known for the TV adaptation starring Judi Dench, Elizabeth Gaskell’s novel Cranford started life as a series of short

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House through Autumn leaves

Your Next Chapter of Autumn Events from Elizabeth Gaskell’s House

Autumn is just around the corner. So, are you ready for a new chapter of online Autumn Events 2025? You can choose between literary workshops featuring favourite writers like Jane Austen (and, of course, Elizabeth Gaskell) or a packed programme of fascinating

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