Darryl Friesen’s Reviews > The Works of Elizabeth Gaskell, Part I Vol 1 > Status Update

Finished the second of the three parts of “French Life”. Gaskell writes about France and the French people with such affection, it’s really beautiful! And it’s fascinating to see her curiosity about the French Revolution documented here, especially after having read My Lady Ludlow so recently!

Gaskell’s descriptions of the French countryside as she and her daughters enjoy day trips away from Paris are just breathtaking, and so inviting and cozy!

French Life—a fairly extended travelogue, recounting the Parisian middle- and upper-middle-class way of life in the 1860s, and all of Gaskell’s trips to see her friends there.

An unusual entry in this volume today—a tribute/memorial to Robert Gould Shaw, a young wealthy man from New York who sacrificed his life of ease to lead, and ultimately die with, the Civil War’s first regiment made up entirely of black soldiers. Very moving and inspiring! I always forget that the majority of Brits in the Victorian era sided with the South, at least initially. Gaskell’s voice here is so strong.

“An Italian Institution”—Gaskell’s range never ceases to amaze me! Here we have an article on the roots of the Italian mafia!! They sound like the press-gangers in Sylvia’s Lovers..

Gaskell’s “Preface to Colonel Vecchj, Garibaldi at Caprera,” seems somewhat unique, in that it demonstrates an overt political cause that Gaskell publicly supported—namely the political reunification of Italy.

“An Incident at Niagara Falls”

What a daring rescue! 🌊

Gaskell’s Preface to American novelist Maria S. Cummins’s novel “Mabel Vaughan” is a very fascinating reflection on the relationship between American and British authors and readers during the Victorian period!

OK, I’m sitting here in stitches! Just read Gaskell’s essay entitled “Company Manners”? It is SO sassy and hilarious! She’s basically posing the question, “What qualities and attributes in a host constitute someone who throws good dinner parties?” And then proceeds to write about all of the annoying, disastrous, dull, ill-prepared, pretentious parties she’s ever had to endure!!

Finished “Modern Greek Songs,” Gaskell’s review on a book about Greek Folk Songs and culture. Really fascinating, actually!