Ruth (novel)

Ruth is a novel by Elizabeth Gaskell, first published in three volumes in 1853. The book is a social novel, dealing with Victorian views about sin and illegitimacy. It is a surprisingly compassionate portrayal of a 'fallen woman', a type of person normally outcast from respectable society. The title of the novel refers to the main character Ruth Hilton, an orphaned young seamstress who is seduced and then abandoned by gentleman Henry Bellingham. Ruth, pregnant and alone, is taken in by a minister and his sister. They conceal her single status under the pretence of widowhood in order to protect her child from the social stigma of illegitimacy. Ruth goes on to gain a respectable position in society as a governess, which is threatened by the return of Bellingham and the revelation of her secret.

Characters

• Ruth Hilton - The titular heroine. Later referred to as Mrs Denbigh.
• Henry Bellingham - Ruth's lover. Changes his name to Mr Donne.
• Leonard - Ruth's illegitimate son.
• Mr Benson - Minister who takes in Ruth.
• Miss Benson - Sister of Mr Benson.
• Mr Bradshaw - Ruth's employer. Local businessman.
• Jemima Bradshaw - Friend of Ruth's. Daughter of Mr Bradshaw.
• Mr Farquhar - Business partner of Mr Bradshaw. Later Jemima's husband.

External links

Ruth, available at Project Gutenberg.