Charles Dickens | Barnaby Rudge | A Review
Charles Dickens’ ‘Barnaby Rudge’-A Review
Barnaby Rudge is a historical novel written by Charles Dickens and first published in 1841. The novel is set in the 1780s during the Gordon Riots, a period of violent anti-Catholic protests in London. Barnaby Rudge is one of Dickens’ lesser-known works, but it is still a worthwhile read for those interested in historical fiction or Dickens’ oeuvre.
The novel follows the lives of several characters, including Barnaby Rudge, a simple-minded young man who is manipulated by the villainous Geoffrey Haredale, and his nephew Edward Chester, who falls in love with Haredale’s niece, Emma. Other notable characters include the evil Sir John Chester, who is determined to ruin Haredale’s reputation, and the kindly locksmith Gabriel Varden, who becomes involved in the conflict between Haredale and Sir John.
One of the most interesting aspects of Barnaby Rudge is the way in which Dickens portrays the riots themselves. He vividly depicts the chaos and violence of the protests, including the destruction of buildings and the murder of innocent people. Through his descriptions, Dickens highlights the dangers of mob rule and the importance of law and order in society.
Another strength of the novel is its characterization. Dickens is known for creating memorable characters, and Barnaby Rudge is no exception. Barnaby himself is a fascinating character, with his childlike innocence and susceptibility to manipulation. The other characters are equally well-drawn, with their own strengths and weaknesses, and their interactions are often complex and nuanced.
Despite these strengths, Barnaby Rudge is not without its flaws. The pacing can be slow at times, and some of the subplots feel extraneous. Additionally, some of the characters’ motivations can be difficult to understand, particularly Sir John’s obsession with ruining Haredale’s reputation.
Overall, however, Barnaby Rudge is a compelling novel that offers a unique window into a fascinating period of history. It may not be as well-known as some of Dickens’ other works, but it is still a valuable contribution to his literary legacy. 0 0 0.
Charles Dickens Barnaby Rudge A Review
N.B. The article originally belongs to the book entitled ‘Reviews of Charles Dickens’ Works‘ by Menonim Menonimus.
Books of Literary Criticism by M. Menonimus:
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