‘We are not so old as the ladies used to be when I was a girl’. Time, atemporality and female ageing in Cranford

Cranford presents not only an illustration of the experience of female ageing, but also a challenge to it. The older ladies of the town are depicted positively and form a resilient community where spinster status is not socially ruinous. In addition, Gaskell’s writing works in part to reverse time and its meaning, rejuvenating Lady Glenmire into a blushing bride, returning Miss Matty to the long-lost love of her youth, and even revivifying Miss Betty Barker’s pet cow.  Dr Sara Zadrozny will show how Gaskell’s use of atemporality operates to counter mid-Victorian categorisations about older women and to expose the limits of such thinking. 

London meetings take place at Francis Holland School, 39 Graham Terrace SW1W 8JF (Tube: Sloane Square). Doors open from 12.45 and you are welcome to join us for lunch (not provided – bring a packed lunch) before the talk. Tea/coffee and refreshments will be provided after the talk. Places are £10.00, payable in cash on the day. Booking is not necessary, although it would help our planning if you could let us know that you hope to come. Contact Jenny Keaveney 07791 309784 –