The novella revolves around the aristocratic Lady Ludlow, who resides in a small village in the early 19th century. She is determined to maintain the traditional ways of life and resists any form of modernization or change. The story unfolds through the eyes of a young boy, who is sent to live with Lady Ludlow as a ward. As he grows up, he witnesses Lady Ludlow's struggles to preserve her aristocratic values amidst the rising tide of industrialization and social reform.
By Elizabeth Gaskell · First published 1859 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Social Commentary, Drama · 14 chapters