John Thornton embracing Margaret Hale in tv adaptation

What's On

Online Talk: Valentine’s Day – North and South

2024 marks the 20th anniversary of the BBC TV adaptation of Elizabeth Gaskell’s classic novel. And when better to celebrate than this Valentine’s Day? The groundbreaking love story of smouldering Richard Armitage as mill owner John Thornton and Daniela Denby-Ashe as complex heroine Margaret Hale broke the BBC switchboard when it first aired. Since then it has captured hearts all over the world.

The original novel and the TV series, adapted by Sandy Welch, tell the story of Thornton and Margaret as they navigate their feelings against a backdrop of industrial strife and class tension.

Mr Thornton and Margaret Hale in the BBC Adaptation

This Valentine’s Day celebrate literary romance and enjoy a closer look at the onscreen and on-the-page passion and changing relationship of our hero and heroine. In this anniversary year, join the ever-popular Libby Tempest, Vice-Chair of the Gaskell Society, for a new talk online. Celebrate North and South and the romance at the heart of the iconic novel and series.

I have never loved any woman before: my life has been too busy, my thoughts too much absorbed with other things. Now I love, and will love. But do not be afraid of too much expression on my part.

North and South, Elizabeth Gaskell

Wednesday 14 February, 7-8pm

£5 per ticket

**Refer to your e-ticket for joining instructions and links. Please check your spam/junk mail for ticket. This talk will also be recorded and all ticketholders will receive a link to the recording via TicketSource after the event.**

You can also support the House by buying North and South from our online shop via this link.

If you have any questions about this event, please see our Frequently Asked Questions.

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.

14th Feb 2024

7pm - 8pm

Talk, Talks

Mr Thornton is coming to tea

North and South, Elizabeth Gaskell