One of the main themes is the supernatural. There are elements like ghosts and unexplained events that add a sense of mystery. Another theme is loyalty, as the old nurse shows great loyalty to the family she serves. Also, there is a theme of family secrets. The story unfolds these secrets gradually, which keeps the readers engaged.
Elizabeth Gaskell creates atmosphere in 'The Old Nurse's Story' by her use of language. She has a way of using words that are both descriptive and evocative. The dialogue, too, plays a part. The hushed tones and the nervous exchanges between the characters contribute to the spooky and mysterious atmosphere that pervades the story.
It's hard to pinpoint a single best novel of Elizabeth Gaskell. 'Wives and Daughters' is often highly regarded for its engaging plot and memorable characters. Different readers have different preferences based on their interests and the themes that resonate with them the most.
One key element is the use of atmosphere. Gaskell often creates a spooky and mysterious atmosphere to set the stage for the ghostly happenings. For example, in her stories, she might describe a gloomy old house with creaking floorboards and dimly lit corridors. Another element is the moral or psychological aspect. The ghosts in her stories often serve as a means to explore the characters' guilt, fear, or unrequited emotions. Also, her use of local folklore and superstitions adds depth to the stories, making them more believable and engaging for the readers.
The themes of love and sacrifice are common. Love can be romantic or platonic, and characters often have to make sacrifices for the ones they love. Family relationships are also a theme. Gaskell explores the dynamics between family members, such as parents and children, siblings. And morality is there too. Characters are often faced with moral dilemmas that test their values.
Elizabeth Gaskell's personal life was filled with interactions with different classes of people. This exposure allowed her to understand the various beliefs and fears that people held. In her ghost stories, we can see how she incorporated these diverse beliefs. Her own family life, with its joys and sorrows, may have also influenced the emotional depth in her stories. The relationships between characters in her ghost stories, whether it's family members or lovers, might be a reflection of her own experiences and observations of human relationships.
I'm not sure specifically as there could be many stories about old nurses. It might be about her experiences in the hospital, taking care of patients over the years, or perhaps some memorable events that happened during her nursing career.