We’re thrilled that Elizabeth Gaskell’s House has joined forces with the Brontë Parsonage Museum to deliver a series of three events that explore the relationship between the the two friends.

This introductory talk by the Chair of the Gaskell Society, the brilliant Libby Tempest,  explores the relationship between these two giants of 19th century literature. Charlotte Brontë and Elizabeth Gaskell were opposites in many ways, yet they were profoundly interested in each other’s work and lives: their first meeting in the Lake District in 1850 led to a real friendship. Libby will explore letters, writings and contemporary accounts to try and discover what held the friendship between these two extraordinary women together. 

“Libby’s lovely warm manner and way of presentation were perfect – I came away inspired to read Elizabeth Gaskell. This was a fantastic treat for a January evening.”

Audience member review of Libby’s previous online talk in January on Cranford.

There are two more events in the series:

The Life of Charlotte Brontë – an introduction. An online talk by Sue Newby from the Brontë Parsonage Museum, 28 July 2021

‘This Unlucky Book’ – an online panel discussion featuring Libby Tempest (Gaskell Society), Dr Lucy Hanks (University of Manchester) and Ann Dinsdale (Brontë Society), 25 August 2021