Sylvia's Lovers by Elizabeth Gaskell 1: chapters 1-14 (hosted by Claudia)

[Claudia]

I am grateful Jean for these interesting comments on Mrs Gaskell's title choices and for reminding us of some of the reasons why Elizabeth Gaskell ceased to be Dickens' Scheherazade...


She chose "Sylvia's Lovers" as her title, but found it also problematic because it reminded her of an historical novel called Nanette and Her Lovers: A Tale of Normandy which was published in 1854, and, ironically, published again in 1862, part of Smith, Elder's "Shilling series of Standard Works of Fiction", and even more ironically, advertised on the front-end papers of the fourth edition of Sylvia's Lovers. (Source: Francis O'Gorman, in his introduction to the Oxford edition)

Nanette and Her Lovers: A Tale of Normandy, by Talbot Gwynne (Josepha Heath Gulston) has certainly a romantic touch and seems to be set in Normandy during the explosive Revolution of 1789. The title seems to imply that it is about Nanette and her lovers, whereas here it should be here more about the lovers than about Sylvia - but you are right, this title refers very well to the story arc and the alchemy of their relationships.

[Bionic Jean, "Dickens Duchess"]

That's really interesting! Thanks Claudia.

[Sue]

Bionic Jean wrote: "I also like Erich's thoughts on the title of the book, focusing our attention on Sylvia and those potentially close to her.

Perhaps this is a bit of a stretch, but I do think that at this point [a..."

Interesting thoughts here. When I consider the title, it seems to put the emphasis on the lovers rather than Sylvia herself. Otherwise it might be Sylvia and Her Lovers. I wonder if there will be more men to consider or when Charley will return to reveal more of his background and possible intentions.

I was also struck by the extent and depth of Sylvia's feelings and concern for her mother when she was ill. I can see that she would not want to leave Monkshaven, at least while her mother is alive. Charley's family is elsewhere and women usually followed their husbands to their hometowns in those times, I believe. When the initial glow around Charley dims a bit would factors like that bother Sylvia?

Sorry Claudia. I missed your comment which was on the followiing page and I didn't realize. You had part of my answer and thoughts

[Claudia]

Sue wrote: "Bionic Jean wrote: "I also like Erich's thoughts on the title of the book, focusing our attention on Sylvia and those potentially close to her.

Perhaps this is a bit of a stretch, but I do think t..."

No harm done, Sue! Indeed Erich's question is thought-provoking.

A slow-paced reading and even reading at our own pace allows us to see how protagonists are well characterised with all their flaws and qualities - as we all are after all. It seems to me that Volume one of the manuscript, until chapter 12, was more concentrating on Sylvia. We will see!

Catcher-ups may still comment on chapters 1 to 14 on this thread, and mention which chapter they are commenting, while we are moving to the second thread.

[Shirley (stampartiste)]

I am finally caught up through Chapter 14 and reading everyone's comments. I've enjoyed all of the discussions, but I was particularly struck by the fact that Gaskell has developed Philip's character much more than she has Charley's. So it's much easier to form a well-founded opinion about Philip than Charley.

I think we can all agree that Philip comes off as "fussy" and not really fun to be around. On the other hand, Charley is almost an unknown, although how he immediately dismissed thoughts of Sylvia and turned to the next prettiest girl at the New Year's Eve party spoke volumes about his reliability as a lover and husband.

I'm wondering if Gaskell devoted Volume I to develop Philip's character and will now devote Volume II to develop Charley's. Philip may not look so bad once we get to know Charley more.

[Julie]

Seconding the thanks to Jean and Claudia for the title information!

[Claudia]

Shirley (stampartiste) wrote: "I am finally caught up through Chapter 14 and reading everyone's comments. I've enjoyed all of the discussions, but I was particularly struck by the fact that Gaskell has developed Philip's charact..."

Delighted to hear that you have caught up, Shirley! We are looking forward to more of your thoughts in the course of your reading!