North and South

Descripción

The story follows Margaret Hale, the daughter of a clergyman who moves with her family from the idyllic village of Helstone in the South to Milton after her father decides to leave the Church of England due to a crisis of faith. In Milton, Margaret encounters the harsh realities of industrial life and becomes involved with the struggles of the working class, particularly through her interactions with John Thornton, a wealthy mill owner.

The novel delves into themes such as social class, industrialization, gender roles, and the conflict between tradition and progress. Margaret’s journey of personal growth and her evolving relationship with Thornton form the core of the narrative.

“North and South” is widely regarded as one of Gaskell’s most accomplished works and is celebrated for its insightful depiction of the social issues of its time, as well as its complex characters and richly detailed setting.