Page 1: Charles Dickens' Early Life and Career
Charles Dickens' formative years were marked by personal hardship that would later influence his literary works. Born in Portsmouth in 1812 to a middle-class family, his childhood took a dramatic turn when his father was imprisoned for debt. At just twelve years old, young Charles was forced to work in a blacking factory, where the harsh conditions left permanent impressions.
Highlight: Dickens' personal experiences with childhood labor directly influenced his portrayal of young characters in his novels.
Example: His time at the blacking factory, where he couldn't wash the factory smell from his hands, later appeared in his works through detailed descriptions of industrial working conditions.
The author's career progression took him from an office boy studying shorthand at night to a successful Parliamentary reporter. His literary journey began with the publication of "Sketches by Boz" and "The Pickwick Papers," eventually leading to his establishment as a prominent novelist.
Quote: "He was very generous to children and unlucky people," reflecting how his early experiences shaped his character and writing.