When was Charles Dickens born and where did he grow up?
Charles Dickens was born on the 7th of February 1812 in Portsmouth. He was the second of eight children in a family that lived beyond its means.
Common questions about Charles Dickens
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What traumatic childhood event influenced Charles Dickens writing?
Charles Dickens was twelve years old when he was forced to paste labels on pots of boot blacking in a factory on Hungerford Stairs. This job haunted him for the rest of his life and became the foundation for his lifelong interest in social reform.
How did Charles Dickens publish his novels during the Victorian era?
Charles Dickens pioneered the serial publication of narrative fiction by publishing his novels in monthly or weekly instalments. This format allowed him to evaluate his audience reaction and modify his plot and character development accordingly.
When did Charles Dickens die and where is he buried?
Charles Dickens died on the 8th of June 1870 at Gads Hill Place after suffering another stroke. He was buried in Poets Corner in Westminster Abbey contrary to his wish to be buried at Rochester Cathedral.
Who was Ellen Ternan and what was her relationship to Charles Dickens?
Charles Dickens fell in love with Ellen Ternan in 1857 when she was eighteen years old and he was forty-five. The affair lasted the rest of his life and they likely lived together secretly for the last thirteen years of his life.