Wicked stepmothers. Prince Charming. Sleeping beauties. Fairy stories might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Elizabeth Gaskell. So put on your glass slipper and step into the deep dark woods for a fresh look at Elizabeth Gaskell’s writing.

Many women writers have used the oral tradition of fairy tales to challenge accepted ideas and re-work traditional tales. Look below the surface in Elizabeth Gaskell and nothing is as it seems.

Can we read The Grey Woman as a reworking of Bluebeard? Is Mrs Gibson in Wives and Daughters the wicked stepmother? Could Ruth be an abandoned Cinderella? What about Cousin Phillis, sexually awakened after being hidden away from the world? Will she find her happy ending with a prince?

What other secret stories simmer below the surface?

Uncover the dark world of folklore and, perhaps, good will triumph over evil as Dr Diane Duffy shares fairy stories from Elizabeth Gaskell.

Are you sitting comfortably? Then we’ll begin.

‘I enjoyed Diane Duffy’s knowledge and expertise – and lovely humorous delivery.’ – Visitor to previous online event