Read more
*Hard Times* by Charles Dickens is set in a fictitious place called Coketown and recounts the story of Thomas Gradgrind and his family.The growing capitalism and industrialization transformed the lives of the working class completely by reducing them from the status of human beings to mere living machines, devoid of any emotions. Being an educationalist, Thomas Gradgrind tries to incorporate those practical principal of facts into his children. However, he later reaps what he sows...In this novel, Dickens tries to depict the utilitarian and materialist mindset of the midnineteenth century.
About the author
Charles Dickens (1812-1870) was a prominent English novelist and social critic, celebrated for his vivid storytelling and keen observations of Victorian society. Born on February 7, 1812, in Portsmouth, England, Dickens experienced a difficult childhood marked by financial instability and a stint in a workhouse. These early experiences deeply influenced his writing and social consciousness. Dickens's novels are renowned for their memorable characters, intricate plots, and sharp social commentary. His works often critique the social and economic injustices of his time, including the harsh conditions faced by the poor and the inadequacies of the legal and educational systems. Dickens's writing is characterized by its rich, descriptive prose and its ability to blend humor with serious social issues. In addition to his novels, Dickens was an active public figure, engaging in various social causes and reform efforts. He was a passionate advocate for children's rights, labor reforms, and improvements to the criminal justice system. Charles Dickens passed away on June 9, 1870, but his legacy endures through his substantial contributions to literature and social reform. His works continue to be widely read and adapted, reflecting his lasting impact on both literary and social spheres.
