Nineteenth-century novelist Elizabeth Gaskell was inspired to start writing in part through her friendship with Charlotte Bronte. Later, Gaskell took on the project of composing the first serious, full-length biography of Bronte, a work that scholars agree did much to fan the flames of Bronte's then-burgeoning reputation. The Life of Charlotte Bronte is a fascinating read for fans who want to learn more about the Jane Eyre author's life and career.