Literary giant of his time & ours

Charles Dickens, born on February 7, 1812, in Hampshire, England, is remembered as one of the greatest novelists and social critics of his time. Known for creating some of literature’s most memorable characters, his works earned fame and established his place as a key figure in Victorian literature. His stories continue to captivate readers and highlight social issues with remarkable insight.

The son of John Dickens, a clerk at the Navy Pay Office, and Elizabeth Barrow, young Charles faced financial hardships during his childhood. When he was 12, his father was imprisoned for debt, forcing Dickens to leave school and work at a warehouse that packaged shoe polish. This harsh experience profoundly influenced his understanding of poverty and inspired his later portrayals of social struggles in his novels.

After his father’s release, Dickens returned to school at Wellington House Academy in London. By his teenage years, he had already begun writing. Despite leaving formal education at 15, he taught himself shorthand and started working as a reporter in courts and parliamentary sessions. His exposure to real-life events sharpened his ability to craft realistic and compelling stories.

In 1833, Dickens published his first short story, 'A Dinner at Popular Walk'. Using the pen name 'Boz', he released 'Sketches by Boz' in 1836, which captured everyday life in London. His rise to fame began with 'The Pickwick Papers', a monthly serial that gained immense popularity. Over the years, he produced timeless classics, including 'Oliver Twist', a vivid portrayal of London's underworld; 'Nicholas Nickleby', highlighting social injustices; and 'David Copperfield', often considered his most autobiographical novel. Dickens also authored 'Bleak House', a powerful critique of the British legal system; 'Hard Times', a portrayal of industrial society; 'A Tale of Two Cities', set against the backdrop of the French Revolution; 'Great Expectations', which explores themes of ambition and personal growth; and 'Our Mutual Friend', his final complete novel, known for its intricate social commentary. These masterpieces cemented Dickens's legacy as one of the greatest literary figures of all time.

Dickens also worked as an editor and journalist. His articles often highlighted social injustices, such as child labour, poverty, and flaws in the legal system. His deep concern for the struggles of ordinary people made his writings both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Dickens married Catherine Hogarth in 1836, and they had 10 children. Despite their separation in 1858, he remained a devoted father. His success allowed him to buy Gad's Hill Place, a home he had admired as a child.

Later in life, Dickens became famous for his public readings, which drew large audiences across England and the US. Although these performances brought him fame, they also took a toll on his health. Even after suffering a stroke in 1869, he continued to write, though his last novel, 'The Mystery of Edwin Drood', remained unfinished.

Dickens passed away on June 9, 1870. Although he had wished to be buried in Rochester Cathedral, he was laid to rest in Westminster Abbey’s Poets’ Corner. His epitaph remembers him as a champion of the poor and one of England's greatest writers.