Wives and Daughters (Penguin Classics)

Wives and Daughters is a novel by Elizabeth Gaskell that explores the complexities of human relationships in 19th-century English society. When Molly Gibson's father remarries, her life becomes increasingly entwined with that of her new stepfather and stepsister, Cynthia. As the two girls navigate their complicated family dynamics, they must also contend with the societal expectations placed upon them. Set against the backdrop of a watchful village community, Gaskell's novel offers a witty and ironic critique of mid-Victorian society. Through Molly's story, she examines themes of Englishness, personal identity, and the constraints of social class. This Penguin Classics edition features notes on textual variants and an introduction discussing the novel's challenging investigation of these themes. Published in 1997, this edition is based on the 1866 Cornhill Magazine version of the novel, offering a unique insight into Gaskell's work. With its authoritative text and introduction by distinguished scholars, this Penguin Classics edition provides a valuable resource for readers interested in exploring the complexities of human relationships during this period.