Charles Dickens

Biography

Charles Dickens, born on February 7, 1812, in Portsmouth, England, is one of the most celebrated novelists of the Victorian era. His early life was marked by hardship, including his family's financial struggles that led to his father being imprisoned for debt. At the age of 12, Dickens was forced to leave school to work in a blacking factory. These experiences profoundly influenced his writing, which often explored themes of social injustice and poverty.

Dickens' literary career began with the publication of *The Pickwick Papers* in 1836, a serialized novel that quickly gained immense popularity. He went on to produce a series of beloved classics, including *Oliver Twist*, *David Copperfield*, *A Tale of Two Cities*, and *Great Expectations*. Known for his vivid characters and keen social commentary, Dickens became renowned for his ability to blend humor, satire, and pathos.

Throughout his life, Dickens was also an avid social reformer, using his fame to advocate for changes in education, labor laws, and conditions for the poor. He passed away on June 9, 1870, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence literature and society.