Elements of Charles Dickens' Writing Style

By:  Thomas Lindsay

Charles Dickens' writing style, characterized by its vivid depictions of Victorian society, memorable characters, and sharp social commentary, earned him the term "Dickensian." Here are some key elements of Dickens' writing style:

1. Victorian Settings: Dickens' novels are often set in Victorian-era London, a bustling metropolis teeming with contrasts of wealth and poverty, industry and squalor. His evocative descriptions of the city's streets, alleyways, and landmarks bring these settings to life, immersing readers in the social and physical realities of the time.

2. Caricature Characters: Dickens' characters are often larger-than-life, embodying both the virtues and vices of Victorian society. He employs caricatured traits, such as physical appearance and speech patterns, to accentuate the personalities of his characters and make them more memorable.

3. Satirical Tone: Dickens' novels are infused with a sharp satirical tone, using humor and exaggeration to critique the social and economic injustices of his time. He targets institutions like the workhouse system, the legal system, and the class divide, exposing their flaws and shortcomings through his witty observations.

4. Repetitive Language: Dickens frequently employs repetition of words, phrases, and sentence structures to create rhythmic effects and emphasize key themes. His use of anaphora, the repetition of words at the beginning of successive clauses, is particularly notable, as seen in the famous opening line of A Tale of Two Cities: "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times."

5. Loss of Innocence: Many of Dickens' protagonists embark on coming-of-age journeys, confronting the harsh realities of the world and losing their naivety. Characters like Oliver Twist, Martin Chuzzlewit, and Nicholas Nickleby experience traumatic events that shatter their innocence and shape their understanding of society.

6. Cliffhangers: Dickens' use of cliffhangers, moments of suspense left unresolved at the end of chapters, was a deliberate strategy to keep readers engaged and eagerly anticipating the next installment. This technique was particularly effective in his novels published in serial form.

These elements of Dickens' writing style, combined with his storytelling prowess, have made his works enduring classics of English literature. His ability to weave social commentary into captivating narratives and create memorable characters has captivated readers for generations, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire and entertain.

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