Lisa (NY)'s Reviews > Ruth

Ruth is much too good and saintly to be an interesting character. Nor is the story particularly original. Ruth makes a mistake in her youth and spends her life atoning for it. Yet, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel! With understated artistry, Gaskell illuminates the people surrounding Ruth by how they view her and interact with her. In the process, the novel also makes a strong statement about religious hypocrisy and the unfair treatment of women.