If you enjoy reading books by Elizabeth Gaskell then you might also like the following authors:
Charlotte Brontë, with her focus on strong female protagonists and social critique, offers a reading experience reminiscent of Gaskell’s novels.
Her most famous work, “Jane Eyre,” combines romance with profound insights into the societal challenges faced by women, much like Gaskell’s approach to her characters and settings.
George Eliot, the pen name of Mary Ann Evans, wrote with a depth and insight that fans of Elizabeth Gaskell will appreciate.
Her novel “Middlemarch” is often praised for its intricate portrayal of English society and the challenges of the era, capturing the complexities of social issues and personal struggles.
Readers who appreciate Gaskell’s depictions of rural and industrial England might find Thomas Hardy’s novels engaging.
Hardy is known for his richly detailed settings and exploration of characters’ interactions with their environments, as seen in works like “Tess of the d’Urbervilles.”
Anthony Trollope’s novels, such as those in the Chronicles of Barsetshire series, explore the dynamics of Victorian society with a wit and observational style that fans of Gaskell can enjoy.
His portrayal of middle-class life provides a window into the era’s social intricacies.
Known for his pioneering work in the mystery genre, Wilkie Collins offers suspenseful narratives combined with social commentary.
His novel “The Woman in White” weaves thrilling plots with examinations of Victorian society, appealing to those interested in Gaskell’s storytelling.
Charles Dickens shared Gaskell’s concern for social reform, reflected in his vivid characters and depictions of class struggles.
His novels, like “Oliver Twist,” provide a sympathetic look at the underprivileged, making them an insightful read for those who enjoy Gaskell’s empathetic storytelling.
Anne Brontë's writing, particularly in “The Tenant of Wildfell Hall,” deals with social issues and women’s struggles for independence, themes similar to those found in Gaskell’s works. Her realistic portrayal of Victorian life may resonate with Gaskell’s readers.
George Gissing’s novels often portray the harsh realities of late Victorian life for the lower middle class, resonating with Gaskell’s exploration of social issues.
His careful character studies in books like “New Grub Street” can offer a compelling narrative for fans of Gaskell’s style.
Though primarily setting her novels in the United States, Edith Wharton’s exploration of social constraints and the complexities of relationships can be appreciated by fans of Gaskell.
Her work “The Age of Innocence” examines themes of societal pressure and moral conflicts.
Mary Elizabeth Braddon’s novels often contain elements of mystery and social commentary that will appeal to Gaskell’s audience. Her work “Lady Audley’s Secret” combines an engaging narrative with an exploration of gender and identity within Victorian society.
Margaret Oliphant’s prolific literary output includes novels that provide a realistic portrayal of Victorian middle-class life, much like Gaskell’s tales. Her “Chronicles of Carlingford” series highlights themes of societal expectations and personal struggles.
Sarah Grand was known for her New Woman novels, which addressed social issues and the pursuit of female empowerment, echoing themes found in Gaskell’s work.
Her novel “The Beth Book” challenges Victorian norms, offering an engaging read for those interested in progressive narratives.
Ellen Wood, known by her pen name Mrs. Henry Wood, wrote popular sensation novels that often included social critique. Her most famous work, “East Lynne,” combines dramatic storytelling with reflections on Victorian morality, similar to themes explored by Gaskell.
Often compared to Jane Austen, Susan Ferrier writes with wit and insight into Scottish society of her time.
Her lively depictions of family dynamics and social commentary in novels like “Marriage” will appeal to those who appreciate Gaskell’s exploration of relationships and society.
Maria Edgeworth’s novels, such as “Castle Rackrent,” provide an engaging look at Irish society that complements Gaskell’s portrayals of English life. Edgeworth’s works often focus on issues of class and social reform, topics that Gaskell’s readers may find intriguing.