A Study of Hegemony and Class Conflict in Gaskel’s North And South

Abstract

The paper discusses the relation between the north and south as two different geographical locations in the novel. By focusing on them, the article focuses on the hegemonic role of the classes and the emerging conflict. The conflict seems to be fought on industrial grounds but it relates to an intellectual and political awareness that plays a vital role in the sustenance of the ideological changes that take birth. The grave relationship of both classes is not controlled by sheer force but by a well thought out plan that plays a vital role delaying the emergence of a revolution in the working class. The void between the classes is sustained by a powerful mechanism which is indirectly ruling the entire arena of factories their workers and unions. Ironically the unions that are supposed to secure the lives and rights of the working class fall prey to the power of the industrialist.