Dombey & Son By Charles Dickens-an Early Feminist Novel?

Charles Dickens

One of the greatest pleasures I have discovered in the last ten years or so is the genius of Charles Dickens. It started with Bleak House as this was a book recommended as one that would interest anyone with an interest in the law and legal system.

It took a while to get into his wordy, florid, detailed style and it was, at first, a struggle. But I persevered and am delighted that I did.

At this stage I believe I have read every book Dickens has written, with the exception of Dombey & Son. And I am putting that right at the moment.

I am enjoying Dombey & Son via Audible audio books and the pleasure I derive from listening to a RADA trained English actor bringing all the diverse, interesting characters to life with their superb readings is tremendous.

Dombey & Son is about, among other themes, the pride that Mr. Dombey, a well to do  businessman , enjoys with the birth of a long awaited son. It is said that prior to the birth of the son that “girls are given away in this house”.

However, things do not turn out as expected as the son grows up to be a waster and his older, ignored sister turns out to be a wonderful, caring person.

I have only listened to about 3 chapters so far but I am really looking forward to the rest of it.

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