When Paul Manning begins working as an engineer clerk for the railroad he decides to move in with his mothers family on their farm. There he is able to be closer to his job as the railroad paves the way for further industrialization of rural areas. While Paul is advancing in his career and settling in his new home his attention is held by his cousin Phillis. Paul and Phillis become quick friends and confidants. Worried for her Paul keeps a close eye on Phillis as she comes of age. Because of Phillis beauty and high intelligence she does not seem to fit into any social circles. Many other women feel that she is not ladylike enough and men are threatened by her superior intellect. However as Paul and Phillis grow closer Phillis meets his boss and quickly falls in love with him. Edward Holdsworth Pauls boss is a very intelligent man and is not intimidated by Phillis equal intellect. Though as their relationship continues Paul becomes uneasy about the match feeling uncomfortable about the age gap between his cousin and Holdsworth. Despite his objections and guidance Phillis ultimately must decide her place in the world by herself. As she grows older this only becomes more confusing as the Industrial Revolution rises alongside her changing a world that she never yet had the chance to gain footing in. Separated into four parts Cousin Phillis contains a narrative the spans throughout both Paul and Phillis coming of age as they grow find occupations love and navigate the rigid social expectations of the Victorian era. Considered by literary critics and professionals to be one of Elizabeth Cleghorn Gaskells crowning achievements Cousin Phillis is a moving narrative filled with drama sentiment and humor. While Cousin Phillis reveals thoughtful perspectives on Victorian life especially regarding gender dynamics and social changes amid the Industrial Revolution it also portrays the universally relatable experience of comingofage creating a narrative with both historical signi