Redemption through Divine Motherhood in Ruth – Religion in Victorian Literature

Description In a world not built for women, we take a radical new look at religion and redemption in Victorian literature. Starting with Elizabeth Gaskell’s groundbreaking novel Ruth, this online talk reveals the revisionary use of Christian imagery and themes in the scandalous story of teenage motherhood. Then we take a look at similar ideas of ‘God as a mother’. Discover a fresh look at a range of authors from popular favourites like Charlottë Bronte and Harriet Beecher Stowe to lesser-known writers like Anna Jameson and Frances Power Cobbe. How did they turn Christian imagery to their own uses? How do their works fit into Victorian debates around religion and gender roles? Dr Rebecca Styler explores how literature was used by women to rewrite Victorian religion. You can uncover a new perspective on some of your favourite authors. ‘These talks are always really good: they feel friendly, relaxed and intimate, whilst being intellectually stimulating.’ Visitor to previous online event. This event was first recorded as part of our Ruth season of events. Recorded June 2025. On purchase, you will be sent a link to this talk. Please note, due to the file size it may take a few minutes for the talk to load.