Our highly popular series of lunchtime lectures on great works of literature are brought to you by Dr Jane Mackay. A graduate of three universities, Jane's obvious love for her subject, penetrating insight, wit, warmth and humanity continue to enthral.

Elizabeth Gaskell's first novel, it confronts all the social concerns that were to absorb her in her writing life in Manchester. A moving and sometimes harrowing picture of the poverty and nobility of spirit, that Gaskell experienced, when she worked among the poor in 1840s Manchester. Once you have me ‘Mary’ you will never forget her.