Once again we welcome Dr Diane Duffy to lead our discussion.

For the February session Diane will be looking at types of narrative in Mary Barton, focusing on chapters 14, 15, and 16 as well as the life histories-Job, Alice and Esther in Chapters 3 & 4.

Mary Barton has been called a multi-genre narrative and there is evidence of melodrama, romance, journalism/documentary, personal history and tragedy in this novel, maybe you can think of others? Why might she want to mix so many writing styles? What effect do they have on the narrative itself, particularly thinking about how she arranges them in the text?

I addition think about where and why ECG uses questions, exclamations and symbolism in Chapters 14, 15 and 16. How do these devices help carry meaning?

Prior to the discussion there will be the usual delicious buffet lunch served at 12:30 pm. The discussion will begin at 2 pm. and finish at 3 pm. Doors open at 12:15 pm.

These are always lively and interesting discussions and we welcome all who enjoy Elizabeth Gaskell’s novels, either to the discussion only or to the lunch.

Charges: Members: £10 incl lunch  Discussion only: £5

Non-members: £11 incl lunch.   Discussion only: £6  All are welcome

Please remember to bring along your own plate, dish and mug, plus cutlery

There will also be a chance to visit the Gaskell Exhibition Room on the first floor and also to visit the changing exhibitions in the Chapel itself.

Brook Street Chapel Hall  is accessed directly from Adams Hill, on the opposite side to Knutsford Railway Station (pedestrian crossing at traffic lights).

.NB The Knutsford meetings take place on the last Wednesday of every month from October to April, excluding December.