Charles Dickens was an English author, who lived in the 19th century and is regarded as one of the greatest novelists in the history of literature. Dickens belonged to the Victorian Era in England and is generally regarded as the greatest literary figure of his era. He became a hugely popular public figure during his life time and almost all of his books are still considered masterpieces by most people all across the world. Dickens grew up in abject poverty and was not formally educated, however that did not stop him from becoming a writer. He produced a staggering amount of work during his career, which included a total of 15 novels, plenty of short stories, articles and shorter novels. Dickens became an internationally renowned author after the publication of ‘The Pickwick Papers’ and went on tours in which he read his own novels on stage, to an audience. His other masterpieces include ‘A Tale of Two Cities’, ‘David Copperfield’, ‘Hard Times’, ‘Oliver Twist’, ‘Great Expectations’ and ‘A Christmas Carol’ among others. Many of his books became part of school and college curriculum worldwide and immortalised Dickens in the hearts and minds of people. Here are some of the most famous quotes from the man himself and his literary works.
Suffering has been stronger than all other teaching, and has taught me to understand what your heart used to be. I have been bent and broken, but - I hope - into a better shape.
It is a fair, even-handed, noble adjustment of things, that while there is infection in disease and sorrow, there is nothing in the world so irresistibly contagious as laughter and good humour.
Charles Dickens
It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.
Charles Dickens
The pain of parting is nothing to the joy of meeting again.
And yet I have had the weakness, and have still the weakness, to wish you to know with what a sudden mastery you kindled me, heap of ashes that I am, into fire.