"Mary Barton" is a novel written by Elizabeth Gaskell, first published in 1848. Set in the industrial city of Manchester, it explores the struggles of the working class during the Victorian era. The story follows the life of Mary Barton, a young woman torn between love and the harsh realities of poverty, as she navigates the challenges faced by her family and community. The novel highlights themes of social injustice, class conflict, and the impact of industrialization on society. Through its vivid characters and emotional narrative, "Mary Barton" sheds light on the plight of workers and the need for reform in a rapidly changing world.