An aspect of The Enchanted Book Club that I absolutely love is the opportunity to honor lesser-known authors of the past. Elizabeth Gaskell is known as an “unjustly overlooked Victorian author” and after reading Cranford this month, I couldn’t agree more. It was an immense delight to chat with our special guest, Libby Tempest, Vice-Chair of The Gaskell Society, this month. Libby uncovered theories as to why Gaskell isn’t as well-known as her counterparts such as Jane Austen and the Brontës, read aloud quotes from Gaskell’s collection of letters, and ultimately gave us a true depiction of who Gaskell was — a gifted storyteller who I’ve added to my list of real-life heroines!
I encourage you to watch or listen to our conversation below as I’m sure it will inspire you as well. You will also find our discussion questions below ❤️
2. This novel features quite a large group of characters. Who is your favorite and why?
3. What are your thoughts about the society described in this novel?
4. What role does literature play in the novel (e.g., the old bachelor’s library, Miss Matty’s father’s library)? How do you feel this reflects Gaskell’s views on literature?
5. A notable quote from Cranford is: “I’ll not listen to reason…reason always means what someone else has got to say.” Do you find this to be a disagreeable perspective? Would you have felt the same living in Cranford’s society as a woman?
6. Feel free to share any other thoughts you have!
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