Martin Chuzzlewit

Martin Chuzzlewit represents a critical phase in Charles Dickens' development as an author. Until this novel, Dickens' characters sometimes seldom departed from the brief character traits they were given. Martin Chuzzlewit marked the beginning of Dickens dive into what his biographer, Forster, referred to as the 'springs of charcter.'

Tormented by the greed within his family, Martin Chuzzlewit, rich and old, has become cynical and untrusting, which causes him to recommend his grandson stake his claim in the world without him. So young Martin leaves for America with his heart set upon making his on fortune. Dickens' characters, minor and major, are filled with surprising depth. Their exteriors are familiar. Jonas Chuzzlewit is a cruel, heartless man, scheming to gain the family's fortune. Martin's manservant, Mark Tapley, is a cheerful man offering hope. Tom Pinch is a gentle soul. Mrs. Gamp, a private nurse, drinks too much and is unethical in her dealings. But these topical characteristics don't always hold, making Dickens' characters all the more complex.

Martin Chuzzlewit's depiction of avarice, extortion, and murder make it one of Dickens' most spectacular, comically dark stories of redemption.

This edition includes:

• A biography of Charles Dickens to introduce the text.