Summary Of Gaskell's Religious Doubt

Gaskell did not have to use religious doubt to move the Hale family from South to North as there were an infinite ways to do so. In fact it can be inferred that this decision was more than just a plot device but rather a way for Gaskell to demonstrate a change in religious belief during this time. It shows how specific novel characters reacted to this change and in turn was able to show the effect it had on citizens from both the North as well as the South. Industrialization helped start the vehicle for religious doubt in the nineteenth century as the working class’s priorities became more about being able to earn a living, supporting themselves, and having material possessions they could hold. Mr. Hale’s religious doubt, although just a small

detail in the larger story, put the Hale family in what could now be considered more of a Darwinian world. A world seen through a lens in this English society was fueled by only what they could touch and see. It is important to note that the North did not lack knowledge of important religious beliefs but simply decided against it. Gaskell used the contrast between north and south to emphasize the state of societal change. While Gaskell’s main focus may have been aimed towards demonstrating the industrialization of Victorian England she simultaneously explains how industrialization had an impact on religion to the people experiencing this change.