Death is an ever-present force in the novel. Analyze how each character death affects those closest to the deceased and how it relates to the larger themes in the novel.

Elizabeth Gaskell originally wanted to name the novel after her protagonist, Margaret Hale. Charles Dickens insisted on titling it North and South. How does the title affect the reader’s perception of the novel and its overall tone?

Analyze the role of parenting as Gaskell presents it in the novel. Consider how the Shaws, Hales, Thorntons, Higgins, and Bouchers make different choices in raising their children. Does Gaskell find one approach better than the others? Why or why not?