North and South

Synopsis

`she tried to settle that most difficult problem for women, how much was to be utterly merged in obedience to authority, and how much might be set apart for freedom in working.' North and South is a novel about rebellion. Moving from the industrial riots of discontented millworkers through to the unsought passions of a middle-class woman, and from religious crises of conscience to the ethics of naval mutiny, it poses fundamental questions about the nature of social authority and obedience. Through the story of Margaret Hale, the middle-class southerner who moves to the northern industrial town of Milton, Gaskell skilfully explores issues of class and gender in the conflict between Margaret's ready sympathy with the workers and her growing attraction to the charismatic mill ownder, John Thornton. This new revised and expanded edition sets the novel in the context of Victorian social and medical debate. ABOUT THE SERIES: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the widest range of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading authorities, helpful notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more.

Summary

Chapter 1: The New World

Margaret Hale, an outspoken and opinionated young woman from the South, travels to the industrial town of Milton in the North to live with her widowed brother. She is immediately struck by the bleak and poverty-stricken landscape, a stark contrast to the lush plantations she left behind.

Chapter 2: The Thornton Family

Margaret meets the Thorntons, a wealthy and influential family who own the local cotton mill. Mr. Thornton is a hard-working and unyielding businessman, while his sister, Fanny, is timid and insecure.

Chapter 3: The Class Divide

Margaret's outspoken nature and disdain for the Northern industrialists alienate her from the Thorntons and their social circle. She witnesses firsthand the harsh working conditions at the mill and the struggle of the workers.

Example:

Margaret is horrified by the sight of a young boy working in the mill: "He was so small, so fragile, and his face was pinched and drawn. He looked like a miniature version of an old man."

Chapter 4: The Two Worlds

Margaret and Mr. Thornton represent the clash between the traditional Southern values and the emerging Northern industrialism. Their conflicting worldviews lead to constant friction.

Chapter 5: The Strike

When the mill workers go on strike for better wages and working conditions, Margaret becomes involved in their cause. She supports the strikers and challenges Mr. Thornton's authority.

Example:

During a confrontation, Margaret declares, "These people are not machines, Mr. Thornton. They deserve to be treated with dignity and respect."

Chapter 6: The Storm

As the strike escalates, violence erupts in Milton. Margaret and Mr. Thornton are forced to confront their feelings for each other amidst the chaos.

Chapter 7: The Aftermath

In the aftermath of the storm, Margaret and Mr. Thornton slowly begin to reconcile their differences. They come to understand and respect each other's values, despite their initial prejudices.

Example:

Margaret acknowledges, "I was wrong to judge you solely by your role as a mill owner. You have a heart and a conscience."

Chapter 8: The Happy Ending

Margaret and Mr. Thornton's love for each other transcends their social and political divisions. They marry and establish a life together, symbolizing the possibility of harmony between the North and South.