15 June 2026

June saw the first meeting proper of the new iteration of Gothic Valley as an independent and inclusive group for all women. It was well attended, which is very encouraging (it’s always nice to see so many friendly faces 😃).

Dr Emma Liggins (Manchester Centre for Gothic Studies at Manchester Metropolitan University), spoke about Gothic Literature and The New Women – focusing mainly on women writers of the period (around 1890-1930). She is hugely knowledgeable on the subject, and weathered early technical shenanigans to give a lively and very interactive talk on the subject.

The turn of the last century brought about about a huge interest in spiritualism, driven not least by the loss of life incurred in WWI, and this prompted a renewed interest in the ghost story. Women began to have greater freedom and agency in their lives and more women were writing at this time, and making money from it, than in any previous point in history. That said, the misogynistic representation of The New Woman in the media, and the unease in society at the changing role of women generally, lead to some dark and disturbing themes in literature.

You can find out more about all things Gothic at the Manchester Centre for Gothic Studies’ website: https://manchestergothic.mmu.ac.uk/