Effect of Dickens's Gloomy Childhood on his Novels (An Analytical Study on "David Copperfield" Novel)

Abstract

The goal of this study is to discuss and analyze the influence of childhood on the writers' works, particularly the English novelist Charles Dickens and his gloomy childhood in his novel 'David Copperfield'. The study has employed the descriptive-analytical method in discussing the problem. The study hypothesized that childhood has positive or negative effects on writing. It also hypothesized that an ambitious person can make a successful and fruitful change in his life. A third hypothesis is that a popular writer in his community is the one who deals with social and crucial issues as well as seeking for reformation. The results of the study showed that Charles Dickens has a strong memory to recall his childhood. There is great relationship between Charles's childhood and his novels. David Copperfield can be considered as an autobiography. The researcher recommends the following: More studies concerning literature in Victorian era. Issues as the work of children in factories, education, rich and poor should be discussed deeply and study the case of fallen women, its reasons, effects and solutions. In addition, the researcher suggests some topics for further studies: Social problems in Victorian period. Orphans and their suffering in society, as well as immigration, evasion or resolution.