A Journey with Elizabeth Gaskell: An Examination of Italian Translations of the Works of Elizabeth Gaskell

Abstract

The purpose of this dissertation is to examine the emergence of new female characters in English literature during the nineteenth century and how emerging female writers, particularly Elizabeth Gaskell, responded to social change. Gaskell’s works marked a period of great transition and innovation and highlighted a segment of society whose voice had not been heard before. The historical and social context will be examined, highlighting the strong feeling of revolution that spread not only in England but throughout Europe. In this context, the literary landscape is outlined focusing on an emergent segment of women writers who could finally step from the margins and give voice to their literary talents. A brief survey on the European translation and circulation of Elisabeth Gaskell works follows, with a comparison with her contemporaries. An examination of Gaskell's earliest translations into Italian is made, including comparisons with more recent editions. The paper concludes by highlighting the relevance of this pioneering female writer, who emerged in a society that was only beginning to consider women's literary talent and whose work, in countries, such as Italy, despite achieving only brief initial success, is now increasingly studied and re-evaluated and it conveys to the reader new insights into the cultural background to which she belonged.