The Condition-of-England novel

The Condition-of-England novel, also known as the "social problem novel," is a genre of literature that
emerged in the mid-19th century and focuses on the social and economic issues of the time. These
novels often depicted the negative effects of industrialization and urbanization on society, and the
struggles of the working classes.

The Hungry Forties and the Corn Laws were major issues that affected the lives of many people in
England during this time. The Hungry Forties were a period of economic depression and widespread
poverty, caused in part by a series of bad harvests and the repeal of the Corn Laws, which were
protective tariffs on imported grain. This led to a rise in food prices and increased hardship for the
working classes.

Elizabeth Gaskell, a contemporary novelist of Charles Dickens and William Thackeray, made a significant
contribution to the Condition-of-England novel genre. Her novels, such as "Mary Barton" and "North and
South," depicted the harsh realities of life for the working classes in the industrial towns of the North of
England, and explored issues such as poverty, class inequality, and industrialization.

Gaskell's novels are notable for their realism and empathy towards the working class, providing a
nuanced and complex portrayal of their struggles and concerns. She also wrote with a sense of social
conscience, and aimed to raise awareness of the plight of the working class and to bring about social
reform.

In summary, The Condition-of-England novel is a genre of literature that emerged in the mid-19th
century, depicting the negative effects of industrialization and urbanization on society, and the struggles
of the working classes. The Hungry Forties and the Corn Laws were major issues that affected the lives of
many people in England during this time. Elizabeth Gaskell is an important figure of this genre, known
for her novels that depicts the lives of the working classes in the North of England, with a sense of
realism, empathy, and social conscience.