Timeline: The Life and Works of Charles Dickens by

February 7, 1812: Birth of Charles Dickens

manuelstefanelli — 2024-10-08 07:39:31 UTC

Charles John Huffam Dickens is born in Portsmouth in 1812, England, to John and Elizabeth Dickens. He is the second of eight children in a middle-class family.

1824: A Childhood Interrupted

manuelstefanelli — 2024-10-08 07:39:31 UTC

When he was 9 years old he was sent to school but 3 years later his father was sent to prison for debts so Dickens was forced to work in a blacking factory. He suffered 3 years of loneliness and hardship, this experience profoundly influences his later writings, especially 'David Copperfield' and 'Great Expectations'.

1833: First Published Work

manuelstefanelli — 2024-10-08 07:39:31 UTC

At first he worked as a journalist. In 1833 he published sketches of Victorian life in society for newspapers under the pseudonym of Boz. Dickens publishes his first story, 'A Dinner at Poplar Walk,' in the Monthly Magazine. This marks the beginning of his literary career.

1836: The Pickwick Papers

manuelstefanelli — 2024-10-08 07:39:31 UTC

Dickens' first novel was 'The Pickwick Papers', which was pubblished in instalments and revealed the author's humoristic and sarcastical qualities. Tells about the adventures of Pickwick Club members. Its immense popularity catapults him to literary stardom at the young age of 24.

1837-1839: Oliver Twist

manuelstefanelli — 2024-10-08 07:39:31 UTC

Dickens writes and publishes 'Oliver Twist' in monthly installments. This novel tells the story of an orphan who escapes a workhouse and embarks on a journey through the seedy underbelly of London. He encounters a cast of memorable characters, including Fagin, the Artful Dodger, and Bill Sikes as he seeks to find his place in the world.

1843: A Christmas Carol

manuelstefanelli — 2024-10-08 07:39:31 UTC

Dickens publishes 'A Christmas Carol', which becomes an instant classic and helps to establish many of the traditions we associate with Christmas today.

1850: David Copperfield

manuelstefanelli — 2024-10-08 07:39:31 UTC

Dickens publishes 'David Copperfield', considered his most autobiographical novel. He later called it his 'favourite child' among his works.

1859: A Tale of Two Cities

manuelstefanelli — 2024-10-08 07:39:31 UTC

Dickens publishes 'A Tale of Two Cities', set against the backdrop of the French Revolution. It becomes one of his most famous historical novels.

1861: Great Expectations

manuelstefanelli — 2024-10-08 07:39:31 UTC

Dickens publishes 'Great Expectations', a coming-of-age story that explores themes of wealth, poverty, and human nature. It is considered one of his greatest literary achievements.

June 9, 1870: Death of Charles Dickens

manuelstefanelli — 2024-10-08 07:39:31 UTC

Charles Dickens passes away at the age of 58, leaving behind an unfinished novel, 'The Mystery of Edwin Drood'. He is buried in Poets' Corner at Westminster Abbey, solidifying his place among the greatest figures in English literature.