2010 is the 200th Anniversary of the birth of Elizabeth Gaskell. So why would we mention Elizabeth Gaskell?

At one time she was always referred to as ‘Mrs Gaskell' and she is remembered mainly for the major novels she wrote. Some people will know of her because of the series on television, ‘Cranford'. Examples of Gaskell's other writings are, ‘North and South', ‘Ruth', ‘Mary Barton' and a biography of Charlotte Bronte.

Elizabeth Gaskell was a life long Unitarian and Unitarian values permeate her writing. She married the Unitarian Minister William Gaskell of Cross Street Chapel, Manchester. She was very aware of poverty in Manchester, and this is a theme that can be found in some of her writings.

During this year Elizabeth Gaskell will be honoured with a memorial in a window panel in Poets' Corner in Westminster Abbey.

Has anyone read any of her works? Or anything about her? If so please let June know.