Skip to main content
Chaptra
Cover of The Letters of Charles Dickens. Vol. 2, 1857-1870

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

Written by Charles Dickens

Not rated yet — tap a star to review it

Chaptra reads alongside you — AI insights, chapter breakdowns and reader discussions for every book. Join free

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."

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The Letters of Charles Dickens. Vol. 2, 1857-1870, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 20 hours
  • advanced
  • insightful
  • personal
  • reflective

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.

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.

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.
Friendship and Social Connection
Dickens's letters reveal a man deeply reliant on and devoted to his friendships. His correspondence with figures like Wilkie Collins, John Forster, and various actors and literary acquaintances showcases the importance of camaraderie, collaboration, and emotional support in his life.

Worth discussing

How do Dickens's letters reveal a different side of him compared to his published novels?

Chapter-by-chapter breakdowns, character arcs and the full thematic analysis come with a free account.

Discussions

No one has started one yet

Join

Questions this book opens up

No discussions yet

Be the first to start a discussion about this book!

Sign up to start the discussion

Reviews

No reviews yet

Be the first to review this book!