Cousin Phillis

Name: Cousin Phillis
Author: Elizabeth Cleghorn Gaskell

By Elizabeth Cleghorn Gaskell

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British Literature Novels

About This Book

A young clerk moves into lodgings in a small county town and narrates his growing acquaintance with a gentle rural cousin, whose plain virtues and domestic rhythms charm him. He contrasts steady office routine and chapel life with country walks and market sights, and the arrival of a cosmopolitan engineer complicates admiration and social expectations. The novella combines close observation of provincial manners, pastoral description, and quiet character study, ending in a reflective account of unspoken attachments, changing prospects, and the responsibilities of adult life.

About the Author

Elizabeth Cleghorn Gaskell

Elizabeth Cleghorn Gaskell (1810-1865) was a prominent English novelist and short story writer known for her keen social commentary and vivid characterizations. Her works often explore the complexities of Victorian society, particularly the struggles of the working class. Gaskell's notable novels include "Mary Barton," which addresses the plight of the industrial poor, and "North and South," a tale of class conflict set against the backdrop of the industrial revolution. Additionally, her beloved work "Cranford" offers a charming portrayal of life in a small English town. Gaskell's literary contributions have left a lasting impact on English literature, making her a significant figure in the Victorian literary landscape.