A Dark Night's Work

Name: A Dark Night's Work
Author: Elizabeth Cleghorn Gaskell

By Elizabeth Cleghorn Gaskell

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British Literature Novels

About This Book

The narrative is set in a small county town and follows a respected conveyancing attorney and his cultivated son as they navigate local society and ambitions. Rigid class distinctions and the son's polish provoke both admiration and resentment among the gentry. A dark, violent incident one night disrupts their lives and triggers legal inquiry alongside painful moral choices. The plot traces how professional duty, family loyalty, and community judgment respond while private conscience and the desire to protect reputation complicate decisions. Recurring concerns include guilt, social hierarchy, and the tensions between law, honor, and personal responsibility.

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.