Charles Dickens in America: Martin Chuzzlewit and His offensive criticism Against America, In 1842

Abstract

This present work is an analysis of Charles Dickens’s offensive criticism against America in 1842, in his novel Martin Chuzzlewit. The main character, young Martin Chuzzlewit travels to America and during his stay he depicts the culture, society and habits of the people of America offensively.The purpose of this study is to determine the reasons that lead Dickens to portray America in such way in his novel. This thesis, first of all, presents some notes about Dickens’s life: childhood, adulthood, and death. Next, Charles’ style of writing is introduced. This section contains descriptions of the methods and techniques he used to create his characters, plots, and settings. Following this, a brief analysis and a summary of the novel is provided. In addition, an exploration of the chapters of the novel which contain the criticism is presented. Finally, this thesis offers a comparison between some of the historical and cultural realities of America during the mid-19th century and Charles Dickens’ description.