Charles Dickens: The Power of A Tale of Two Cities
| Date of Birth : 7th February 1812 |
| Died : 9th June 1870 |
| Place of Birth :Portsmouth, England |
| Father : John Dickens |
| Mother : Elizabeth Dickens (née Barrow) |
| Spouse/Partner : Catherine Hogarth |
| Children : Charles Jr., Mary, Kate Macready, Walter Landor, Francis Jeffrey, Alfred D'Orsay Tennyson,Sydney Smith Haldimand, Henry Fielding, Dora Annie, Edward Bulwer Lytton |
| Professions : Writer and Social Critic |
Overview
Charles Dickens is one of the greatest writers in English literature, known for his compelling storytelling, unforgettable characters, and deep social commentary. His works, including "Oliver Twist," "A Tale of Two Cities," "Great Expectations," and "David Copperfield," continue to captivate readers worldwide. His storytelling not only entertained but also highlighted the social injustices of the Victorian era. In this article by Academic Block, we will explore the life, career, famous books, writing style, social impact, and lasting influence of this literary icon.
Who was Charles Dickens
Charles Dickens was a legendary English writer and social critic, known for his timeless novels like "Oliver Twist," "A Tale of Two Cities," "Great Expectations," and "David Copperfield." Born in 1812, he highlighted poverty, child labor, and social injustice in Victorian England. His vivid characters, gripping plots, and emotional storytelling made him one of the greatest novelists in history. Author Dickens’ works continue to inspire literature, film, and social awareness, securing his place as a literary icon.
Early Life and Background of Charles Dickens
Born on February 7, 1812, in Portsmouth, England, Charles Dickens was the second of eight children. His father, John Dickens, worked as a clerk in the Navy Pay Office but struggled financially. When Charles Dickens was just 12 years old, his father was sent to debtor’s prison, forcing young Dickens to work in a blacking factory. This experience shaped his later works, giving him firsthand insight into the struggles of the poor and working-class people.
Despite his hardships, Dickens was determined to educate himself. He worked as a law clerk and later as a journalist, which refined his writing skills and fueled his passion for storytelling.
Charles Dickens’ Writing Career and Early Success
(i) First Major Success: The Pickwick Papers
In 1836, Charles Dickens published his first novel, "The Pickwick Papers," which became an instant success. The novel was serialized in monthly installments, a format that would become a hallmark of Dickens' writing style.
This method of publishing not only made literature more affordable and accessible to the public but also built anticipation among readers, boosting his popularity.
(ii) Oliver Twist: Exposing Social Injustice
Following the success of "The Pickwick Papers," Dickens wrote "Oliver Twist" (1837-1839), a novel that shed light on the harsh realities of child labor, crime, and poverty in London.
Through the character of Oliver, Dickens exposed the cruelty of workhouses and the struggles of orphaned children. The book introduced memorable characters like Fagin, Bill Sikes, and the Artful Dodger, leaving a lasting impact on literature.
Complete Works of Charles Dickens: A Timeless Literary Legacy
Charles Dickens, one of the greatest English writers, created some of the most influential novels in literary history. His works highlight themes of poverty, social injustice, class struggle, and redemption, making them relevant even today. Below is a list of his most famous books, each contributing to his reputation as a master storyteller.
Charles Dickens' novels continue to inspire generations, reflecting the struggles and hopes of society. His literary brilliance secures his place as a timeless literary icon.
Social Reform and Activism
Dickens was not only a literary giant but also a passionate advocate for social reform. Throughout his career, he used his writing as a platform to address the pressing issues of his time, ranging from the plight of the poor to the shortcomings of the legal system.
In "Oliver Twist," Dickens highlighted the harsh conditions faced by orphans in workhouses, shedding light on the deplorable treatment of children in institutions meant to care for them. His vivid portrayal of characters like Fagin and the Artful Dodger aimed to expose the criminal exploitation of vulnerable youth.
Dickens's commitment to social justice is perhaps most evident in his novella "A Christmas Carol." Through the character of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly and cold-hearted man, Dickens emphasized the need for compassion and generosity, especially during the holiday season. The story's enduring message has made it a timeless classic and a perennial favorite during Christmas.
In "Bleak House," Dickens took on the legal system, satirizing the inefficiencies and injustices of the Court of Chancery. The novel's complex narrative, featuring multiple characters and intricate plotlines, allowed Dickens to explore the intricate web of bureaucracy and its impact on individuals.
Charles Dickens' Writing Style and Techniques
(i) Vivid Characters and Realistic Settings
One of the greatest strengths of Charles Dickens’ writing is his ability to create memorable characters that feel real. From Ebenezer Scrooge in "A Christmas Carol" to Uriah Heep in "David Copperfield," his characters often represent larger social issues.
(ii) Social Commentary and Criticism
Author Dickens’ novels serve as powerful critiques of Victorian society. He addressed themes like child labor, wealth disparity, corruption, and the struggles of the working class. His works encouraged social reform and inspired discussions about justice and human rights.
(iii) Serialization and Cliffhangers
Charles Dickens mastered the art of serialization, where his novels were published in weekly or monthly installments. This technique kept readers engaged and eager for the next chapter. Many of his stories included dramatic cliffhangers, making them highly addictive.
(iv) Humor and Satire
Despite tackling serious themes, Dickens infused his works with humor and satire. His witty observations and comical characters, such as Mr. Micawber in "David Copperfield," added charm and entertainment to his stories.
The Social Impact of Charles Dickens
-
Raising Awareness of Poverty and Child Labor : Dickens’ books highlighted the struggles of the poor, particularly children forced into labor. His works brought public attention to the issue, leading to legal reforms in child labor laws and workhouse conditions.
-
Promoting Education and Literacy : His accessible writing style and serialized publications made literature more affordable and widespread. This encouraged education and literacy, especially among the working class.
-
Influencing Modern Literature and Storytelling : Many modern authors credit Charles Dickens as an inspiration. His ability to blend character-driven storytelling, social criticism, and compelling plots remains a model for contemporary literature and cinema.
Adaptations of Charles Dickens Works in Popular Culture
Charles Dickens, one of the greatest English novelists, has had a profound influence on literature, theater, television, and cinema. His timeless stories have been adapted into movies, TV series, plays, and musicals, proving their enduring appeal. Below is a table highlighting some of the most famous adaptations of Dickens' novels in popular culture.
Dickens' stories continue to be reimagined for modern audiences, proving his legacy as one of the most influential writers in history.
The Legacy of Charles Dickens
Even after more than 150 years, Charles Dickens’ novels remain widely read, adapted into films, TV series, and stage plays. His works continue to influence writers, filmmakers, and historians. His home in Gads Hill Place, England, and the Charles Dickens Museum in London attract visitors from all over the world, celebrating his contributions to literature.
Final Words
Charles Dickens is undoubtedly one of the most influential authors of all time. His ability to craft memorable characters, expose social injustices, and captivate readers ensures that his works will continue to be cherished for generations. Whether you are reading "Great Expectations," "A Tale of Two Cities," or "Oliver Twist," the themes in Dickens’ novels remain relevant and thought-provoking even today. His legacy as a literary icon and social reformer will never fade. What are your thoughts about Charles Dickens? Do let us know your views and suggestion so we can improve our upcoming articles. Thanks for Reading!
This Article will answer your questions like:
Charles Dickens was a renowned Victorian-era novelist, celebrated for his vivid storytelling and critique of social injustices. His works, including Oliver Twist and A Tale of Two Cities, provided a powerful commentary on poverty, industrialization, and morality. Dickens’ literary legacy remains unmatched, influencing literature, theater, and film. His ability to create compelling characters and narratives made him one of the most significant English writers of all time. Born in 1812, his impact endures globally.
Oliver Twist teaches the importance of compassion, justice, and perseverance against adversity. Dickens criticizes child labor, poverty, and crime while highlighting moral integrity through Oliver’s struggles. The novel reveals the harsh realities of Victorian society, emphasizing that kindness and resilience can triumph over cruelty. It remains a social commentary on economic disparity and injustice, urging society to uphold humanity. The story serves as a timeless reminder of the need for empathy and ethical responsibility.
Oliver Twist follows an orphan’s journey through Victorian England’s harsh society. Raised in a workhouse, Oliver escapes to London, where he falls into the hands of Fagin’s gang of thieves. Despite the hardships, he maintains his innocence and ultimately discovers his true heritage. The novel exposes child exploitation, crime, and poverty, advocating for social reform. Dickens’ portrayal of injustice remains a powerful literary critique of 19th-century England, making Oliver Twist one of the greatest social novels.
Charles Dickens suffered from stroke-induced neurological issues and chronic fatigue in his later years. His relentless work schedule, public readings, and travel took a toll on his health. In 1870, he suffered a fatal stroke, which led to his death. Historians suggest he may have had hypertension and cardiovascular problems, exacerbated by stress. Despite his declining health, Dickens remained dedicated to writing, leaving an indelible mark on English literature with his timeless works and social critiques.
Charles Dickens was famous for his realistic portrayals of Victorian society, social criticism, and unforgettable characters. His novels, such as Great Expectations and A Christmas Carol, exposed class struggles, poverty, and industrial hardships. Dickens revolutionized serialized fiction, making literature accessible to all. His ability to blend humor, drama, and satire made him one of the most influential English novelists. His works continue to inspire adaptations in film, theater, and television, proving his enduring legacy.
The moral of A Tale of Two Cities is that sacrifice, redemption, and love can triumph over chaos and injustice. The novel contrasts selfishness with selflessness, as seen in Sydney Carton’s noble sacrifice. Dickens warns against the dangers of oppression and revenge while highlighting the power of compassion and second chances. Through Carton’s ultimate act of heroism, Dickens conveys that personal transformation and self-sacrifice lead to true immortality and legacy.
The Pickwick Papers is a comedic novel following Mr. Pickwick and his club members as they travel across England, encountering eccentric characters and humorous adventures. Dickens uses satire to critique social institutions, legal corruption, and class distinctions. It was his first major success, showcasing his sharp wit and keen observation of society. The novel’s episodic structure makes it a delightful read, reflecting Dickens’ early genius and love for storytelling in 19th-century England.
Great Expectations explores social class, ambition, and redemption. Pip’s journey from humble beginnings to wealth reveals the illusion of material success versus true happiness. The novel criticizes the rigid Victorian class system, exposing its moral corruption. Love and guilt shape characters, especially Miss Havisham and Estella, who reflect the consequences of betrayal and revenge. Dickens emphasizes that kindness and self-awareness are greater virtues than status, making this a timeless novel on human growth.
Charles Dickens was born on February 7, 1812, in Portsmouth, England. His childhood in Chatham and London greatly influenced his literary works, as he experienced poverty firsthand when his father was imprisoned for debt. These hardships shaped his deep concern for social reform and justice, which became central themes in his novels. His keen observations of Victorian England’s social inequalities turned him into one of the most influential writers of the 19th century.
The Pickwick Papers explores themes of friendship, social satire, and justice. Charles Dickens uses humor and vivid characterization to depict English society’s eccentricities while highlighting class struggles and the legal system’s flaws. The novel, structured as a picaresque, follows Mr. Pickwick’s adventures and moral growth, emphasizing kindness and camaraderie. Through its episodic storytelling, it critiques social pretensions while celebrating the resilience of human nature, making it an enduring classic in 19th-century literature.
Charles Dickens’ books were published in chronological order, starting with The Pickwick Papers (1836), followed by Oliver Twist (1837-1839), Nicholas Nickleby (1838-1839), and The Old Curiosity Shop (1840-1841). His later works include David Copperfield (1849-1850), Bleak House (1852-1853), Great Expectations (1860-1861), and Our Mutual Friend (1864-1865). His final, unfinished novel, The Mystery of Edwin Drood (1870), remains a literary enigma. Each book reflects Dickens’ social critique and mastery of storytelling.
The Pickwick Papers gained immense popularity due to its humor, engaging characters, and serialized format, which kept readers eagerly anticipating each installment. Charles Dickens' sharp wit and keen observations of Victorian society resonated with audiences, offering both entertainment and social critique. The novel’s episodic nature and endearing protagonist, Mr. Pickwick, made it accessible to a wide readership, helping Dickens establish himself as one of the most influential literary figures of his time.
Oliver Twist is a social novel highlighting child poverty, crime, and injustice in Victorian England. It follows an orphan, Oliver, who escapes a workhouse and is drawn into London's criminal underworld. The novel critiques social institutions while exploring themes of morality and identity. Through Oliver’s journey, Dickens exposes the harsh realities of the poor and calls for reform, making it one of the most enduring works in English literature.
A Christmas Carol is Charles Dickens’ most famous story. This novella, published in 1843, follows Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly businessman visited by three spirits who transform his heart. The story’s powerful message of redemption, social responsibility, and generosity has made it a timeless classic, widely adapted into films, plays, and television. Its critique of Victorian social inequality and its uplifting moral make it Dickens’ most enduring and influential work.
Mr. Dickens and His Carol is a historical fiction novel by Samantha Silva that reimagines how Charles Dickens wrote A Christmas Carol. Facing financial struggles and pressure from his publishers, Dickens, initially reluctant, finds inspiration through personal encounters in Victorian London. The novel blends fact and fiction, portraying his journey from skepticism to creativity, ultimately crafting one of the most beloved holiday stories ever written. It captures the spirit of redemption and the magic of Christmas.
The most unusual aspect of The Mystery of Edwin Drood is that it remains unfinished. Charles Dickens died in 1870 before completing the novel, leaving its central mystery unsolved. The book, a mix of crime, romance, and psychological drama, follows the disappearance of Edwin Drood. Readers and scholars have debated its intended ending for over a century, leading to various adaptations and speculative conclusions. Its open-ended nature continues to intrigue literary enthusiasts worldwide.
The Life of Our Lord is a devotional work written by Charles Dickens for his children. Unpublished during his lifetime, it recounts the life and teachings of Jesus Christ in a simple, accessible manner. Dickens, a firm believer in Christian values, emphasized themes of kindness, humility, and charity. Unlike his other works, it was not meant for public reading but as a moral guide for his family, highlighting his deep personal faith and spirituality.
The Mystery of Edwin Drood follows Edwin Drood, a young man engaged to Rosa Bud, who mysteriously disappears. His jealous uncle, John Jasper, obsessed with Rosa, becomes the prime suspect. As the story unfolds, hidden secrets and dark motives emerge. However, since Dickens passed away before completing the novel, the fate of Edwin Drood remains unknown. This unfinished mystery has sparked numerous theories and adaptations, making it one of literature’s most intriguing unsolved cases.
The main conflict in A Tale of Two Cities revolves around class struggle and personal sacrifice during the French Revolution. The story contrasts the aristocracy’s corruption with the revolutionaries’ brutality, depicting the dangers of both tyranny and vengeance. The personal conflict between Charles Darnay, an exiled noble, and Sydney Carton, a self-destructive lawyer, culminates in Carton’s ultimate act of redemption. The novel’s central themes of resurrection and justice make it one of Dickens’ most powerful works.
At age 12, Charles Dickens was forced to work at Warren’s Blacking Factory after his father was imprisoned for debt. This traumatic experience exposed him to the hardships of the working class, shaping his deep empathy for the poor. The long hours, harsh conditions, and sense of abandonment profoundly influenced his later works, inspiring characters and themes in David Copperfield and Oliver Twist. This period played a crucial role in shaping his literary and social consciousness.
The main message of A Christmas Carol is the importance of compassion, generosity, and redemption. Through Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation from a miser to a benevolent figure, Dickens critiques the social and economic disparities of Victorian England. The novel encourages selflessness, social responsibility, and the power of kindness. Its timeless moral, emphasizing that change is always possible, has made it a beloved holiday classic that continues to inspire generations.
Famous quotes by Charles Dickens
“Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has many—not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some.”
“Heaven knows we need never be ashamed of our tears, for they are rain upon the blinding dust of earth, overlying our hard hearts.”
“No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another.”
“There is nothing in the world so irresistibly contagious as laughter and good humor.”
“It is a melancholy truth that even great men have their poor relations.”
“The pain of parting is nothing to the joy of meeting again.”
“It is a fair, even-handed, noble adjustment of things, that while there is infection in disease and sorrow, there is nothing in the world so irresistibly contagious as laughter and good humour.”
“Have a heart that never hardens, and a temper that never tires, and a touch that never hurts.”
“The most important thing in life is to stop saying ‘I wish’ and start saying ‘I will.’ Consider nothing impossible, then treat possibilities as probabilities.”
“We need never be ashamed of our tears.”
“No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another.”
“It is a melancholy truth that even great men have their poor relations.”
“I only ask to be free. The butterflies are free.”
Controversies related to Charles Dickens
Marital Issues and Separation: One of the significant controversies in Dickens’s life was the strain on his marriage to Catherine Hogarth. After 22 years of marriage, they legally separated in 1858. Dickens’s decision to separate from his wife raised eyebrows in Victorian society, as divorce and separation were considered scandalous during that era.
Relationship with Ellen Ternan: Following his separation from Catherine, Dickens formed a close relationship with Ellen Ternan, an actress who was significantly younger than him. The nature of Dickens’s relationship with Ternan was kept private during his lifetime, leading to speculation and rumors. Modern scholars have explored the details of this relationship, but much remains unknown.
Treatment of Wife in Separation: Dickens’s public statements about his separation from Catherine were at times critical of her, and he sought to control the narrative. This approach drew criticism, as it was perceived by some as an attempt to damage Catherine’s reputation. The public reaction to Dickens’s treatment of his estranged wife varied, with some sympathizing with him and others expressing disapproval.
Handling of Mental Health Issues: Dickens’s handling of mental health issues within his family has also been a subject of scrutiny. His son, Charles Dickens Jr. (known as Charley), experienced mental health challenges. Dickens’s responses to his son’s struggles and his decisions regarding Charley’s treatment have been debated and analyzed in the context of Victorian attitudes toward mental health.
Depiction of Minorities in Some Works: While Author Dickens was a champion of social justice and criticized societal inequalities, some of his works have faced criticism for their depictions of minorities, particularly Jewish characters. The character of Fagin in “Oliver Twist” has been viewed as perpetuating negative stereotypes about Jews, and discussions about anti-Semitism in Dickens’s works continue to be part of literary analysis.
Treatment of American Society: Dickens’s visit to the United States in 1842 sparked controversy due to his critical views on American society, particularly on issues such as slavery and copyright infringement. His travelogue, “American Notes,” and his novel “Martin Chuzzlewit,” which satirized certain aspects of American life, received mixed reactions in the U.S.
Handling of Personal Finances: Despite his success as a writer, Dickens faced financial challenges due to his extravagant lifestyle and financial support provided to family members. His approach to managing his finances, including his involvement in speculative investments, led to financial difficulties at times.
Charles Dickens’s family life
Marriage to Catherine Hogarth: Charles Dickens married Catherine Thomson Hogarth on April 2, 1836. Catherine came from a respectable middle-class family, and Dickens had known her since childhood. They had a total of ten children together, born between 1837 and 1852.
Children:
- Charles Culliford Boz Dickens (1837–1896): The first child, named after Dickens’s pseudonym “Boz.”
- Mary Dickens (1838–1896): Often referred to as “Mamie.”
- Catherine Elizabeth Macready Dickens (1839–1929): Known as “Katey.”
- Walter Landor Dickens (1841–1863)
- Francis Jeffrey Dickens (1844–1886): Named after Dickens’s friend Jeffrey, who was a Scottish judge.
- Alfred D’Orsay Tennyson Dickens (1845–1912): Named after the poet Lord Tennyson.
- Sydney Smith Haldimand Dickens (1847–1872)
- Henry Fielding Dickens (1849–1933)
- Dora Annie Dickens (1850–1851): Named after a character in Dickens’s novel “David Copperfield.”
- Edward Bulwer Lytton Dickens (1852–1902): Named after the novelist Edward Bulwer-Lytton.
Final Years of Charles Dickens
1860s Literary Works: In the 1860s, Author Dickens continued to produce notable works, including “Great Expectations” (1861) and “Our Mutual Friend” (1865). These novels showcased his mature writing style and a deeper exploration of societal issues.
Public Readings: Dickens’s popularity extended beyond the written page. He embarked on a series of public readings both in England and the United States. These readings, where he performed excerpts from his own works, became immensely popular and financially lucrative for him.
Last Completed Novel – “Our Mutual Friend”: “Our Mutual Friend” was Dickens’s last completed novel, serialized between 1864 and 1865. The novel dealt with themes of materialism, societal corruption, and the impact of wealth on human relationships.
Overwork and Health Issues: Dickens’s tireless work ethic and extensive public readings took a toll on his health. He suffered from various ailments, including gout and respiratory problems. Despite his health challenges, he remained committed to his writing and public engagements.
Farewell Tour in America (1867-1868): In 1867, Dickens embarked on a farewell tour of America, where he conducted a series of readings. The tour was financially successful but physically demanding. Dickens’s health further deteriorated during this time.
Death of Son and Continued Personal Challenges: In 1867, Dickens experienced the loss of his son Walter, who died at the age of 22. This was a significant personal blow to Dickens, and the grief added to the emotional strain he was already facing.
Unfinished Work – “The Mystery of Edwin Drood”: Dickens’s final, unfinished novel was “The Mystery of Edwin Drood,” serialized between 1870 and 1871. The novel’s completion was cut short by Dickens’s death, leaving the mystery unresolved. Various attempts have been made by later writers to provide a conclusion to the story.
Death and Legacy: Charles Dickens passed away on June 9, 1870, at Gad’s Hill Place in Kent. He was buried in Westminster Abbey, a testament to his lasting impact on literature and society. Dickens’s death was mourned not only in England but also around the world.
Influence and Posthumous Celebrations: Dickens’s influence continued to grow after his death. His novels remained popular, and his contributions to literature and social reform were acknowledged. Dickens’s birthday, February 7, is celebrated annually as “Dickens Day” by admirers and scholars alike.
Memorials and Tributes: Various memorials and statues have been erected in honor of Charles Dickens, including the Dickens Fellowship and the Dickens Museum in London. These tributes reflect the enduring admiration for his literary achievements.Author
Facts on Charles Dickens
Early Life and Education: Charles John Huffam Dickens was born on February 7, 1812, in Portsmouth, England. He was the second of eight children in the Dickens family. His father, John Dickens, worked as a clerk in the Navy Pay Office.
Financial Struggles: Dickens’s family faced financial difficulties, and when he was just 12 years old, his father was imprisoned for debt. Charles had to leave school and work at Warren’s Blacking Warehouse to support himself. This experience had a profound impact on his later writings and influenced his views on social injustice.
Pseudonym “Boz”: Dickens adopted the pseudonym “Boz” when he began his career as a writer. His first published work, a collection of sketches and observations titled “Sketches by Boz” (1836), gained him recognition and marked the beginning of his literary journey.
Journalism Career: Before becoming a full-time novelist, Dickens worked as a journalist. He contributed to various newspapers and magazines, and his writing often focused on social issues, providing a platform for his early views on reform and societal injustices.
The Pickwick Papers: Dickens’s first novel, “The Pickwick Papers,” was published in serial form from 1836 to 1837. It gained immense popularity and established him as a prominent literary figure. The novel follows the adventures of the Pickwick Club as they travel through England.
Christmas Carol and Holiday Traditions: “A Christmas Carol,” published in 1843, is one of Dickens’s most famous works. The novella contributed significantly to the modern celebration of Christmas, popularizing customs such as the Christmas tree and emphasizing themes of generosity and compassion.
Social Activism: Dickens was a passionate advocate for social reform. His novels often addressed issues such as child labor, poverty, and the shortcomings of the legal system. Through his writings, he aimed to raise awareness and inspire change in the societal conditions of Victorian England.
World Tours and Public Readings: Author Dickens embarked on several international tours, including visits to the United States. His public readings drew large audiences, and he became known for his engaging and theatrical performances. Dickens’s readings were a major source of income and contributed to his popularity on both sides of the Atlantic.
Personal Life: Dickens married Catherine Hogarth in 1836, and they had ten children together. However, their marriage eventually faced difficulties, leading to their separation in 1858. Dickens’s relationship with actress Ellen Ternan became a subject of speculation and intrigue.
Notable Works: Some of Dickens’s most acclaimed novels include “Oliver Twist” (1838), “David Copperfield” (1850), “Bleak House” (1853), “A Tale of Two Cities” (1859), and “Great Expectations” (1861). His works continue to be widely read and adapted into various forms of media.
Legacy and Death: Charles Dickens passed away on June 9, 1870, at the age of 58. Despite his death over a century ago, Dickens’s legacy endures. His contributions to literature, his advocacy for social reform, and his memorable characters ensure that he remains a celebrated figure in the world of letters.
Academic References on Charles Dickens
Books:
- “Charles Dickens: A Life” by Claire Tomalin (2011)
- “Charles Dickens: A Life Defined by Writing” by Michael Slater (2009)
- “Dickens” by Peter Ackroyd (1990)
- “The Invisible Woman: The Story of Nelly Ternan and Charles Dickens” by Claire Tomalin (1990)
- “Dickens and the Workhouse: Oliver Twist and the London Poor” by Ruth Richardson (2012)
- “Becoming Dickens: The Invention of a Novelist” by Robert Douglas-Fairhurst (2011)
- “The Cambridge Companion to Charles Dickens” edited by John O. Jordan (2001)
- “Charles Dickens in Cyberspace: The Afterlife of the Nineteenth Century in Postmodern Culture” by Jay Clayton (2003)
Articles:
- “Dickens and Popular Entertainment” by Robert L. Patten (1998):
- “The Domestication of the Working Class in Charles Dickens’s Novels” by Natalie McKnight (2003)
- “Dickens, Madness, and Asylums” by Catherine Waters (2007)
- “The Postcolonial Dickens” by John O. Jordan (2006)
- “Dickens and the City” by Juliet John (2012)