Charles Dickens Biography and Works.

Charles John Huffam Dickens, usually called Charles Dickens, was born on February 7, 1812. He was an English novelist, the greatest of the Victorian period.

Charles was bon to John and Elizabeth Dickens. His father used to work as a clerk in the Navy-Pay office. Having a poor head for finances, he found himself imprisoned for debt in 1824. His wife and children, except Charles, joined him in the Marshalsea Prison. Charles was put to work at Warren’s Blacking Factory.

He attended a school in London from 1824 to 1827. He later became a reporter and started writing for a newspaper.

Many of his writings were originally published serially, in monthly instalments or parts. Dickens often created the episodes as they were being serialized. This practice kept the public looking forward to the next instalment.

The first series of Sketches by Boz was published in 1836. Later, Dickens was hired to write short texts to accompany a series of humorous sporting illustrations by a popular artist, Robert Seymour.

Then, Dickens altered the initial conception of The Pickwick Papers, which became a novel and was a huge success. After its success, he embarked on a full-time career as novelist.

Some of his other works include Master Humphrey’s Clock, The Old Curiosity Shop, The Chimes, The Cricket and the Hearth.

Dickens’ work has been highly praised for its realism, comedy and mastery of prose, unique personalities and concern for social reform by famous writers.

He suffered a mild stroke in 1869 and another on June 8, 1870. He died on June 9, 1870.

Trivia

Dickens enjoyed a wider popularity and fame than any previous author during his lifetime.