Charles Dickens, Barnaby Rudge

Francesca Mackenney (University of Bristol)

Ed. by Grace Moore, University of Otago
The Literary Encyclopedia. Volume 1.2.1.07: English Writing and Culture of the Victorian Period, 1837-1901.
Vol. editors: Gillian Fenwick (University of Toronto), Grace Moore (University of Otago)

Dates

First circulation or publication 1841

Places

England (Country of Origin)

Genres and Modes

Novel

Resources

In 1836, a young Charles Dickens set to work on his first historical novel, originally entitled “Gabriel Varden: the Locksmith of London”. From its conception, the novel was a bold attempt to emulate both the style and success of the founding father of historical fiction, Sir Walter Scott. Unquestionably, the young novelist’s ambitions are reflected in his intention to publish in the prestigious three-volume format established by Scott’s Waverley series. As one seasoned commentator forewarned, however, “Mr Charles Dickens is not yet Sir Walter Scott” (Weekly News, 1837). Following a prolonged period of gestation and multiple disagreements with publishers, “Gabriel Varden” …

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3586 words

Citation: Mackenney, Francesca. "Barnaby Rudge". The Literary Encyclopedia. First published 03 June 2020 [https://staging.litencyc.com/php/sworks.php?rec=true&UID=6448, accessed 20 April 2024.]

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