The Moorland Cottage by Elizabeth Gaskell
Published by Hesperus Press
Publication Date February 1, 2011
Source: Bought
Genres: Classic
Goodreads
Maggie Browne, the daughter of a deceased clergyman, is encouraged to give up her own life and passions and devote herself to her brother Edward. Through the example and guidance of her mother—who dotes on Edward constantly—and her mentor, Mrs. Buxton, Maggie learns that self-sacrifice is the key to living a fulfilled life. The precursor to and arguably the template for George Eliot’s The Mill on the Floss, this feminist masterpiece begs the question How much personal happiness can one forgo in the name of duty and devotion to another? Maggie’s love story, Edward’s perfidy, and the dramatic conclusion at sea all blend together seamlessly to make this story a timeless tale.
The Moorland Cottage is the chronicle of brother and sister Edward and Maggie Browne. Edward is a bit of an ass, but yet Maggie still follows him around like a lost puppy filling his every request. This is until she meets Frank Buxton and her attentions begin to drift elsewhere.
The story plays out like the fairy tale Cinderella, but once Maggie has claimed her glass slipper, the reader is only halfway through the short novel. What could happen to this seeming perfect union? Her irresponsible, co-dependent brother of course. Thus, Maggie is forced to choose between the two men she loves, her brother and her fiance.
I’m embarrassed to say I was watching an Oprah Show recently that dealt with broken families due to tragedy. The two sisters that were on knew what was happening was wrong but still felt an obligation to protect their older brothers. This may be a poor example, but I feel that this is where Maggie Browne falls as well, stuck between a rock and a hard place.
I was quite mistaken to think this would end neat and “happily ever after” but instead turned into a seafaring adventure and reminded me of the Titanic. The Moorland Cottage is an unexpected gem going from Jane Austen to Robert Louis Stevenson in a second. Elizabeth Gaskell will not disappoint.
Elizabeth Gaskell isn't quite as known or as celebrated as Dickens or the Brontes, people who had been big friends of hers, according to her biography, but she was a gifted writer in her own right.
Beautifully written review of the novella. I'm so happy to read that you enjoyed it, Whitney and thank you for participating in the group read. 🙂
I read this for the group read, too, I liked it (it's Gaskell!) but not as much as some of her other work. I just re-read Cranford, too, wow that's an impressive book.
I'm new to your blog, and enjoying it! Thanks!
I've just stumbled across your blog and love it! You've inspired me to pick up some classics!!! I love the description of Edward in your review of The Moorland Cottage as well – that's going on my TBR pile!