Gaskell sets her novel in the fictional city Milton (Manchester). It is an industrial town.  Milton was modeled after Manchester in this Novel. 

Greenwich Village has always been a center for expression, and an oasis for art, music, and culture. It was once considered the "Bohemian Capital" due to its citizens who practiced "unconventional" lifestyles in the 19th century. It is home to the 1960's counterculture movement and the birthplace of the Gay Rights Movement. Many protests occurred here, inclusing the protest against the Vietnam War. During the 1960's, several abstract expressionists resided here including Andy Warhol, and singer Lou Reed.