Who's Who In Dickens

by Michael Pointer

Charles Dickens was unquestionably a giant of nineteenth century literature: his humour and wit, and his ability to weave a spellbinding tale, have all ensured that his works have been much translated and are still widely read today. Dickens's first story was published in 1833, and by the time of his death in 1870 he had created a large body of work. Each book is bursting with vibrant characters representing the entire Victorian social strata, from the seaminess of the underworld to the elegance of the leisured classes.

By explaining their roles and providing skilful character biographies, 'Who's Who in Dickens' brings to life the diverse people of his world. Here can be found Dickens's classic creations: Wackford Squeers from 'Nicholas Nickleby'; Tiny Tim and Scrooge from 'A Christmas Carol'; Mr Micawber from 'David Copperfield'; Pip and Miss Havisham from 'Great Expectations'; as well as lesser-known characters such as Major Bagstock from 'Dombey and Son; Silas Wegg from 'Our Mutual Friend; and Mr Pecksniff from 'Martin Chuzzlewit'. Concise and elegantly written entries are accompanied by both contemporary illustrations and scenes from the many famous movies and shows which were inspired by Dickens's work, such as David Lean's 'Great Expectations (1946) and 'Oliver Twist' (1948), and George Cukor's 'David Copperfield' (1934).

Arranged alphabetically for easy location, the thumbnail sketches of Dickens's many and varied characters, their quirks and idiosyncrasies, make 'Who's Who in Dickens' as entertaining to read as it is an invaluable work of reference. Evocative illustrations illuminate the lively text - a powerful combination which will not fail to delight the entire spectrum of this great novelist's devoted readers.

160 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1995

Reviews

[Gerry · Rating 4 out of 5]

From Affery, the compelled wife of Flintwinch in 'Little Dorrit', to Jenny Wren, the doll's dressmaker in 'Our Mutual Friend', Michael Pointer provides engaging pen pictures of every Dickens' character. And they are augmented with illustrations, both contemporary, by such as Phiz, and with stills from the many movies and stage productions that Dickens' works have spawned.

All the famous characters are treated royally, such as Scrooge, a name now revered (!) in the English language, Fagin, Philip Pirrip, Pip, and the rest but there are also illuminating pen pictures of the lesser known characters. For instance there is Mr George, the proprietor of a small shooting gallery in 'Bleak House', Ned Dennis, the professional hangman in 'Barnaby Rudge', Mr Toots, the head boy at Doctor Blimber's school in 'Dombey and Son' and Tattycoram, Minnie Meagles' maid in 'Little Dorrit' and many more.

Interestingly Harold Skimpole, a smarmy sponger in 'Bleak House' was allegedly based on Dickens' friend Leigh Hunt. Dickens wrote to Hunt, apologising for incorporating too closely many of Hunt's characteristics in the person of Skimpole, adding, 'Separate in your mind what you see of yourself from what other people tell you that they see'; talk about trying to limit the damage!

The book is entertaining to read and will be equally valuable as a work of reference.

[Bettie]

This looks indispensable.