The Shadows of Dickens: Poverty and Progress

This chapter examines the early life and experiences of Charles Dickens, highlighting how his childhood hardships and the realities of the Industrial Revolution shaped his perspective on social class. It contrasts romanticized views of rural life with the grim truths of poverty and labor conditions, drawing parallels to contemporary issues faced by workers today. By analyzing societal attitudes towards poverty and the evolution of social hierarchies, the chapter challenges prevalent perceptions of economic shifts during this transformative period.