This is one of the earliest novels of industrial alienation, tellingly linked to the plight of 19th-century women. It tells of the relationship between Margaret Hale, a girl from the old rural south, and John Thornton, a mill owner from the new industrial north.
Elizabeth Gaskell
Elizabeth Gaskell was a prominent Victorian novelist known for her insightful portrayals of social issues and complex characters. Some of her notable works include "Cranford," "North and South," and "Wives and Daughters." Gaskell's writing style is characterized by its realism and attention to detail, as well as its exploration of class and gender dynamics. She made significant contributions to the development of the Victorian novel, particularly in her exploration of social realism and the lives of working-class individuals. Gaskell's most famous work is "North and South," which is considered a classic of Victorian literature and continues to be widely studied and admired for its social commentary and compelling characters.