Charles Dickens (1812-1870) was an English writer and social critic whose novels remain extraordinary feats of storytelling and trenchant indictments of social injustices. Born in Portsmouth, Dickens' childhood experiences, particularly his father's imprisonment for debt, significantly influenced his writing. His literature often grapples with themes of poverty, inequality, and the plight of the downtrodden, imbued with a deep empathy for the common man. 'David Copperfield' (1850), one of his most personal works, is notable for its semi-autobiographical nature, with the eponymous protagonist reflecting aspects of Dickens' own life journey from impoverished childhood to renowned authorship. Dickens' literary style is marked by vivid characterizations, biting satire, and a narrative vigor that propels the reader through his expansive oeuvres. His other monumental works include 'Oliver Twist' (1838), 'A Christmas Carol' (1843), 'Bleak House' (1853), 'Hard Times' (1854), 'A Tale of Two Cities' (1859), and 'Great Expectations' (1861), all of which cemented his reputation as a preeminent figure in English literature. His profound impact on the literary world continues to be acknowledged by readers and scholars, resonating through subsequent generations and affirming him as a cornerstone of Victorian literature.
