How do the women of Cranford view marriage? Do you think their perspective is an act of feminist rebellion? Or does it prevent them from having a potentially more fulfilling life?

There are several symbols in Cranford, including the village of Cranford itself, literature, and clothing. Choose one of the symbols from the novel and analyze its development over the course of the novel.

Why do you think that Gaskell doesn’t reveal Mary Smith’s name until Chapter 14? What do we really know about Mary? How would you describe Mary’s role in the novel?