Elizabeth Cleghorn Gaskell

Elizabeth Cleghorn Gaskell, often referred to as Mrs Gaskell, was an English novelist, biographer, and short story writer. Born in London in 1810, she spent her formative years in Cheshire, Stratford-upon-Avon, and the north of England. She was the wife of Reverend William Gaskell and was known for her works that provided a detailed portrait of various strata of Victorian society. Her notable works include 'Mary Barton', 'Cranford', and 'Wives and Daughters'. She died suddenly in November 1865.