A review by quaintmetropolis
David Copperfield by Charles Dickens

adventurous funny hopeful reflective slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

Dickens’ semi autobiographical tale of the eponymous narrator’s life from impoverished boyhood to successful, revered novelist. Dickens brings to the fore maddening aspects of Victorian life such as the treatment of prostitutes, childhood labor, issues of class, and the institution of marriage. All while introducing us to timeless characters that become both friend and foe to David.

I was captivated by the first half. David’s narration was charming and much funnier than I anticipated. I even chuckled out loud a few times while listening. The characters and trajectory were well paced and enjoyable. I rooted for David’s triumph and loved seeing the world through his young eyes and refreshing perspective.

The second half was a real slog. Originally published serially, the episodic storylines weren’t for me. I normally appreciate thinking about how a plot flows and the serialized structure made for a more stilted reading experience. It also made the text feel even longer. 

Ooph I grew real tired of David as it went on, his niceties and sentimentality couldn’t hold my interest and I started becoming equally sick of a lot of the characters. There were so many repetitive, overly impassioned speeches where whole, literal phrases would be repeated. It really showed that Dickens was paid by the word. There were many great, juicy plot points, but their impact was a bit lost among the bloat.

The characters that intrigued me most were actually Rosa Dartle, Steerforth, Mr. Peggoty, and I like the mechanics and reasoning behind Dora. What annoyed me with the child wife sections were that David never seems to realize that perhaps this isn’t what he should have, that Dora might not being the right person for him. She just happens to die and it all conveniently works out in the end for everyone.

Overall, I enjoyed the spirit of it and the first half. I see why those like Barbara Kingsolver choose to adapt it, although her adaptation is roughly half as long.