Blogs & News

: Cloth & Class: Paisley Shawls in Elizabeth Gaskell’s Writing

Paisley shawls are a recurring motif in Elizabeth Gaskell's writing. What is their importance and meaning in her work? Join designer and textile lecturer Margo Singer to find out, in this fascinating talk.  Take the chance to see our House display of original paisley wool scarves from the Elizabeth Gaskell Family Collection too.         Included in House entry 

: Patchwork and Penwork: Quilts & Elizabeth Gaskell’s Writing

Join textile lecturer Margo Singer as she talks about the patchwork quilt, as featured in Elizabeth Gaskell’s novels and in her domestic life. There’ll be chance to see the Manchester Quilt, hand-stitched here by our own Sewing Bee group.         Included in House entry 

: Discussion: Elizabeth Gaskell’s Short Stories – Christmas Storms and Sunshine

It was the day before Christmas; such a cold east wind! such an inky sky! such a blue-black look in people's faces... Christmas Storms and Sunshines Cats, babies and sausages - what more could you want from a Christmas tale? "My dear, I wish for turkey and sausages. It may be a weakness, but I own I am partial to sausages." So says Mr Jenkins, arch-nemesis of fellow lodger Mr Hodgson, at the start of Elizabeth Gaskell's short story

: Discussion: Elizabeth Gaskell’s Short Fiction – The Old Nurse’s Story

 I had seen a look of ghastly terror on Dorothy’s face, which made my very blood run cold... The Old Nurse's Story Windswept fells! Ghostly organ music! Family secrets! Elizabeth Gaskell's eerie short story, first published in 1852, has all the ingredients of the perfect gothic tale: an old manor, dark secrets, brooding weather and ghostly goings-on. Want to find out more? Join Dr Diane Duffy for a lively discussion about The Old Nurse's Story - if you

: Online Talk: Mary Barton’s Manchester

**** Sorry this event has now sold out *****   Join us online to discover the 1840s Manchester of Elizabeth Gaskell's first novel, Mary Barton. Back by popular demand, Dr Diane Duffy will lead you on a literary journey of discovery of the places, buildings and landmarks of the city as featured in the book, with extracts from the text to map the way. This fascinating talk will interest anyone who wants to find out more about historical Manchester