Cliffs Notes on Dicken's David Copperfield

by J.M. Lybyer

As a disguised autobiography, Dickens creates in David the story of a "favorite child," who later encounters suffering and travails, but winds up with a sanguine life all the same.

82 pages, Paperback

First published October 2, 1980

Reviews

[Arianna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I unfortunately read the book in Italian, so I have probably missed a lot of shades from the original masterpiece, but despite this I read the book and I was happy that my expectations in front of a gloomy story were not respected.
The level of details of the storytelling gave me the opportunity to imagine how things were in England, back then, and what kind of life one might have had, since also different people from different social classes are in the story.
David reaches maturity through many events in his life and, although happiness varies depending on his age, he finally comes to what he considers the ultimate joy of life.
It is interesting to see, though, how the ones that have evil intentions will be unmercifully end, giving the sensation that the main message that the author wants to promote is that if one works hard, is honest and tries his best to do good, will be rewarded. And that is very much applicable also today.

[Cathryn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I used to feel regret for never having finished reading Dickens' David Copperfield in my early 20s. I think I got to about 25% and had to give up due to the clunky language. I remember there were very clever parts, and humor as well.
Well, I just now read the Cliffs Notes and ... I no longer feel regret. Because the multiple plots seemed to unfold like so many over-dramatic soap opera scenes. I've heard that the character of David Copperfield is endearing and admired, but I'm not going to try the book again now in my 50s or ever in the future. It's so nice to clean the slate with this one.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great little book to have with the masterpiece. David Copperfield.

[Jane · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very helpful, I'm glad I read it along with the actual novel.