num_pages: 408
description: ""Mary Barton"" is a novel written by Elizabeth Gaskell and published in 1848. The story is set in Manchester during the 19th century and revolves around the life of Mary Barton, a young woman who lives with her father, a factory worker. Mary falls in love with Jem Wilson, a fellow worker, but her father disapproves of the match and encourages her to marry Harry Carson, the son of a wealthy mill owner. Mary's decision leads to tragic consequences, including the murder of Harry Carson and the trial of Jem Wilson.The novel explores themes of class conflict, industrialization, and the plight of the working class. Gaskell's vivid descriptions of the poverty and suffering endured by the workers in Manchester's factories and slums shed light on the social and economic conditions of the time. The characters in the novel are complex and multi-dimensional, and Gaskell's portrayal of their struggles and aspirations is both sympathetic and insightful.""Mary Barton"" is considered one of the earliest and most significant works of social realism in English literature. It was praised by contemporary critics for its realism and authenticity, and its influence can be seen in the works of other Victorian writers such as Charles Dickens and Thomas Hardy. The novel remains a powerful commentary on the human cost of industrialization and the struggle for social justice.Masterpiece of Manchester.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.
language: English
title: Mary Barton
titlecomplete: Mary Barton
genres: Historical Fiction, Historical, Literature, Victorian, Classic Literature, Classics, British Literature, Romance, Fiction, 19th Century
ratings_count: 19508
places: England, Manchester, England
publisher: Kessinger Publishing