Mrs. Gaskell’s Personal Pantheon: Illuminating Mrs. Gaskell’s Inner Circle is the title of a new book by Society member, Bob Gamble, in which he presents previously undiscovered biographical information about Elizabeth Gaskell. Bob’s original research casts fresh light on Elizabeth’s inner circle, uncovering some of the mysteries of her key relationships – most notably the puzzle surrounding ‘Miss Mitchell’. Elizabeth Gaskell cited ‘Miss Mitchell’ as one of the two principal influences in her life (alongside her ‘darling Aunt Lumb’) but there has always been confusion about the true identity of ‘Miss Mitchell’…R

Bob Gamble is a graduate of University College Oxford and worked for many years in the advertising industry. Since his retirement, he has dedicated his time to writing and research; his particular interests being Elizabeth Gaskell, Harriet Martineau and the Brontës. He has written articles for, and given presentations to, all three related societies.

There will be time for a Q&A after Bob’s talk.