North and South Book Review: Elizabeth Gaskell’s Classic Love Story
Elizabeth Gaskell’s novel “North and South,” published in 1854, had somehow eluded me for over forty years, despite my background as an English major. I hadn’t read her books or seen any adaptations. This gap in my literary experience began to close last autumn when I discovered the BBC miniseries of “North and South.” I was instantly hooked and went on to watch other adaptations like “Wives and Daughters” and “Cranford.” Finally, I decided to read Gaskell’s works for myself.
Given my background in socialist theory and a lineage of unionists, it’s surprising I hadn’t read “North and South” sooner. This book masterfully combines an Austen-like romance with themes of class struggle, social injustice, and the impacts of capitalism. It’s like a brilliant mix of Austen, Dickens, and the Brontës, yet entirely unique to Gaskell.
Setting and Storyline
“North and South” centers around Margaret Hale, a nineteen-year-old vicar’s daughter who has enjoyed a genteel upbringing in her aunt’s London home. After her cousin’s marriage, Margaret returns to her beloved village of Helstone. She declines a marriage proposal and her idyllic southern life soon begins to unravel.
Margaret’s father makes a monumental decision to leave the church, sacrificing both his profession and family home. Her mother, a delicate woman prone to headaches, retreats into her room, while her father finds solace in his study. Margaret, ever dutiful, takes charge of their move to the industrial town of Milton, where her father plans to work as a tutor based on a friend’s recommendation.
In Milton, everything is new and challenging for Margaret. The family faces financial constraints, and Margaret finds herself responsible for running the household. This shift from her genteel upbringing to the practicalities of everyday life is overwhelming, and she comes across as haughty to the locals.
John Thornton, one of her father’s students and a mill owner, is immediately drawn to Margaret. However, she finds him lacking in refinement and sentiment. The harsh realities of mill work, local poverty, and the capitalist mindset of Mr. Thornton disturb her. Despite their initial clashes, a complex relationship develops between them.
Margaret Hale: A Heroine Steeped in Strength
Margaret is a character who captures your admiration. She is loving, dutiful, and incredibly strong. Throughout the novel, she holds her family together, even risking her own reputation to protect those she cares about. Margaret’s journey is one of growth, understanding, and finding love.
The novel covers various serious themes including worker strikes, social ethics, and personal tragedies. Despite these challenges, Margaret remains steadfast, learning to empathize with others and contending with her own flaws.
Final Thoughts and Adaptations
“North and South” raises ethical issues that remain relevant today, particularly concerning industrialization and labor rights. The romance between the northern industrialist and the resilient southern lady is timeless.
For those interested in adaptations, the 2004 BBC miniseries starring Richard Armitage and Daniela Denby-Ashe is a standout, though I wouldn’t mind seeing a new adaptation. Richard Armitage’s portrayal of Mr. Thornton has left a lasting impression, making it hard to envision anyone else in that role.
If you haven’t read “North and South,” I highly recommend it. It’s a thought-provoking and beautifully written classic that combines social commentary with a touching love story.
