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The Letters of Charles Dickens. Vol. 2, 1857-1870

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About this book

"The Letters of Charles Dickens. Vol. 2, 1857-1870" by Charles Dickens is a collection of correspondence written during the mid-19th century. This volume compiles a significant selection of Dickens's letters, revealing insights into his personal life, professional endeavors, and the literary and social climate of his time. The letters touch on various subjects, including his family, friendships, theatrical engagements, and reflections on his writing." "At the start of this volume, the letters illustrate Dickens's dynamic and busy life in the late 1850s. He expresses his excitement over acquiring Gad's Hill, a house he had long admired, while also lamenting the loss of his friend Douglas Jerrold. The letters detail his activities, such as organizing memorial entertainments for Jerrold and devoting time to his writing, including completing "Little Dorrit." Dickens shares his observations from his travels, highlights his engagement with other literary figures, and provides glimpses of his affectionate relationships with family members. This opening portion sets the stage for an intimate portrayal of one of literature's giants, providing readers with a compelling perspective on both his personal life and his multifaceted career."
Language
English
Publisher
Project Gutenberg
Release date
Unknown
Downloads
657

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A clearer way to understand The Letters of Charles Dickens. Vol. 2, 1857-1870 through themes, characters, and key ideas

This reading guide highlights what stands out in The Letters of Charles Dickens. Vol. 2, 1857-1870 through 5 core themes, 4 character profiles. It is meant to help readers decide whether the book fits their taste and deepen the reading once they begin.

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What the book is doing

This second volume of 'The Letters of Charles Dickens' offers an intimate and multifaceted glimpse into the life of one of literature's giants between 1857 and 1870. Through his personal correspondence, readers witness Dickens navigating significant personal upheavals, including his marital separation and the acquisition of Gad's Hill, alongside immense professional productivity and public engagement. The letters chronicle the completion of major novels, his extensive public readings, and his interactions with a wide array of literary figures, friends, and family. This collection serves as a vital primary source, illuminating not only Dickens's own thoughts and feelings but also the broader social, cultural, and literary landscape of Victorian England. It provides an unparalleled opportunity to understand the man behind the novels, revealing his passions, anxieties, and unwavering dedication to his craft.

Key Themes

The Creative Process and Authorship

The letters offer a rare window into Dickens's struggles, inspirations, and dedication to his craft. He discusses plot ideas, character development, deadlines, and the sheer labor involved in writing his iconic novels, revealing the human effort behind literary genius.

Public Persona vs. Private Self

The letters starkly contrast the public image of the celebrated, moralizing author with the private man grappling with personal crises, financial worries, and emotional vulnerabilities. This theme is particularly prominent during his marital separation and his exhausting public readings.

A line worth noting
I have been so hard at work, and have been so continually pressed, that I have not been able to write a line, except under that pressure.
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How do Dickens's letters reveal a different side of him compared to his published novels?

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