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768
Novel • Fiction
England • 19th century
1850
Adult
14-18 years
David Copperfield by Charles Dickens follows the life of David, who endures hardships and growth from a young age. After his mother remarries a harsh man, David faces abuse and is sent to a strict boarding school. Following various trials, including the loss of his mother and work in London, David finds refuge with his Aunt Betsey. He attends an elite school, navigates relationships, and ultimately discovers deep love. Sensitive topics such as abuse, poverty, and loss are depicted in the novel.
Nostalgic
Emotional
Inspirational
Melancholic
Humorous
David Copperfield by Charles Dickens is generally celebrated for its rich character development, intricate storytelling, and vivid depiction of Victorian life. Readers and critics praise its emotional depth and relatable protagonist. However, some find the novel's length and detailed descriptions challenging, potentially slowing the narrative momentum. Overall, it remains a beloved classic.
Fans of intricate character development and social commentary, akin to those who enjoy Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery and Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë, will find David Copperfield by Charles Dickens to be a compelling exploration of personal growth and societal issues in Victorian England.
Clara Copperfield
David's kind and innocent mother, whose remarriage introduces significant challenges into their lives.
Clara Peggotty
Known simply as Peggotty, she is David's devoted nurse and a steadfast, caring presence throughout his life.
Miss Betsey Trotwood
David's strong-willed and eccentric aunt, who provides critical support and guidance, ultimately becoming a nurturing figure in his life.
Mr. Dick (Richard Babley)
A kind-hearted and simple-minded man living with Miss Betsey, known for his manuscript project and kite-flying.
Mr. Barkis
The local carriage driver who marries Peggotty and is known for his thrifty nature.
Mr. Edward Murdstone
David's ill-natured stepfather, who imposes strict and cruel discipline upon David and his mother.
Miss Jane Murdstone
The sister of Mr. Murdstone, who shares his oppressive nature and interferes in the Copperfield household.
Mr. Daniel Peggotty
A generous fisherman and brother to Peggotty, who provides a welcoming home to numerous family members.
Little Em’ly
Mr. Peggotty's beautiful and beloved niece, admired by many and central to several key relationships in the novel.
Ham Peggotty
Peggotty's nephew, a gentle and kind-hearted man with a talent for crafting boats.
Martha Endell
A friend of Little Em’ly’s, involved in significant events in Em'ly's life.
Mr. Creakle
The harsh headmaster at David's first school, known for his strict and unforgiving demeanor.
Tommy Traddles
David's loyal friend from school, known for his sunny disposition and perseverance despite challenges.
James Steerforth
A charming and affluent friend of David's from school, whose actions have significant consequences throughout the novel.
Mrs. Steerforth
The doting mother of James Steerforth, who overlooks her son's flaws.
Rosa Dartle
A sharp-tongued woman who lives with Mrs. Steerforth, bearing an old physical scar from James's childhood.
Littimer
The reserved and polite servant of James Steerforth, who quietly plays a role in some of the story's key events.
Mr. Wilkins Micawber
A charming and optimistic man who faces constant financial difficulties but remains a supportive friend to David.
Mr. Wickfield
A well-meaning lawyer whose life becomes complicated due to personal struggles and business challenges.
Agnes Copperfield (nee Wickfield)
Mr. Wickfield’s wise and supportive daughter, who becomes a significant confidante to David.
Uriah Heep
An obsequious and ambitious clerk with ulterior motives, who plays a crucial role in the narrative's development.
Dr. Strong
The generous and respected schoolmaster who employs David and cares deeply for his much younger wife, Annie.
Annie Strong
Dr. Strong's devoted and attractive young wife, who grapples with personal conflicts within her marriage.
Jack Maldron
A distant relative to Annie, whose past relationship with her complicates current dynamics.
Mr. Francis Spenlow
David's employer and father of his first wife, closely involved in David's early career.
Dora Spenlow/Copperfield
David's first wife, known for her beauty and innocence but faces challenges adapting to married life.
768
Novel • Fiction
England • 19th century
1850
Adult
14-18 years
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