Elizabeth Gaskell (1810-1865) was a British writer of the Victorian Era. In her works Elizabeth Gaskell portrayed the English society of those times, depicting different classes including the poorest. Her first novel, 'Mary Barton' is centered on the theme of poverty which can lead to rebellion. In her later works the topic of religion is raised and Gaskell believed that tolerance towards all the religions should be practiced. Mrs Gaskell is also known as the author of the biography of Charlotte Brontë. 'The Manchester Marriage' is a short story first published in 1858. The main character of the story is Mr. Openshaw — a tradesman from Manchester who has moved to London. This man may be telling you that he has done that unwillingly, only due to the circumstances of busyness, but that's untrue. In fact, he is fascinated by london, that overwhelming metropolis. But is his wife fascinated to the same extent? Read this brilliant story and you will know!