Charles Dickens was born on February 7, 1812 in Portsmouth, England. He was the second of eight children born to John and Elizabeth Dickens. The family lived on Portsea Island, off the coast of England. Charles had a difficult childhood as his father, John Dickens, was constantly in debt and eventually ended up in debtors' prison.
Due to his family's financial struggles, Charles was forced to leave school at a young age and work in a factory to help support his family. This experience had a profound impact on him and would later influence his writing.
Despite his humble beginnings, Charles Dickens was determined to succeed as a writer. He began his literary career as a freelance reporter and journalist, writing for various newspapers and magazines. In 1836, he published his first novel, The Pickwick Papers, which was released as a serial and quickly became a commercial success.
Over the next few years, Dickens would go on to publish some of his most famous works, including Oliver Twist, Great Expectations, and A Tale of Two Cities. His novels were known for their vivid characters, sharp social commentary, and engaging storytelling, making him one of the most popular and influential writers of his time.
In April 1836, Charles Dickens married Catherine Thomson Hogarth after a one-year engagement. The couple had a total of ten children, though their marriage eventually ended in separation. Despite his personal struggles, Dickens remained devoted to his children and was known to be a loving and caring father.
Throughout his career, Charles Dickens used his writing as a platform to advocate for social reform and shed light on the plight of the poor and marginalized in society. His novels often depicted the harsh realities of Victorian London, highlighting issues such as poverty, child labor, and inequality.
Charles Dickens passed away on June 9, 1870, leaving behind a rich literary legacy that continues to captivate and inspire readers to this day. His works have been adapted into countless films, plays, and television series, solidifying his place as one of the greatest writers in English literature.