Pickwickian Studies   By: Percy Hetherington Fitzgerald (1834-1925)

Percy Hetherington Fitzgerald's Pickwickian Studies is a delightful and comprehensive exploration of one of literature's most beloved and enduring characters, Mr. Samuel Pickwick. The book is a treasure trove for fans of Charles Dickens and serves as an invaluable companion to his timeless masterpiece, The Pickwick Papers.

Fitzgerald's writing is engaging and scholarly, seamlessly blending historical context with literary analysis. He expertly navigates through the complex layers of Dickens' work, giving readers a deeper understanding of the nuances and intricacies of Dickens' storytelling techniques.

From the very beginning, Fitzgerald makes it clear that his aim is not merely to dissect The Pickwick Papers but to celebrate it. His passion for the subject matter is palpable throughout the book, and it becomes infectious, leaving readers with a renewed appreciation for Dickens' genius and his iconic creation, Mr. Pickwick.

One of the standout elements of Fitzgerald's book is his attention to detail. He meticulously examines every aspect of The Pickwick Papers, from its characters and settings to its structure and themes. By diving deep into the intricacies of the novel, Fitzgerald provides readers with new perspectives and fresh insights that go beyond surface-level analysis.

Moreover, Fitzgerald's approach in Pickwickian Studies is both accessible and engaging. He strikes a perfect balance between academic rigor and an engaging narrative style, ensuring that readers of all backgrounds can enjoy and appreciate his work. This accessibility is particularly commendable considering the potential complexity of the subject matter.

Additionally, the book benefits greatly from a wealth of historical and literary references. Fitzgerald draws upon contemporary sources, including reviews, letters, and interviews, to further illuminate Dickens' intentions and the societal context in which The Pickwick Papers was written. This adds another layer of richness to the reading experience and deepens our understanding of the novel's significance within its historical moment.

The only slight drawback to Fitzgerald's work is that at times it can feel overwhelming with its wealth of information. Some readers may find themselves slightly bogged down in the sheer volume of details presented throughout the book. However, this minor flaw is easily outweighed by the overall wealth of insight offered and the sheer joy of exploring the intricate tapestry of Dickensian literature.

All in all, Percy Hetherington Fitzgerald's Pickwickian Studies is a must-read for any lover of Charles Dickens, The Pickwick Papers, or 19th-century literature in general. Fitzgerald's enthusiasm, meticulous research, and vibrant writing style make for an enlightening and engaging journey into the world of Dickens. This book is a fitting tribute to both Dickens and Mr. Pickwick, shedding new light on their enduring legacy and cementing their place in literary history.

First Page:

This ancient Inn is associated with some pleasant and diverting Pickwickian memories. We think of the adventure with "the lady in the yellow curl papers" and the double bedded room, just as we would recall some "side splitting" farce in which Buckstone or Toole once made our jaws ache. As all the world knows, the "Great White Horse" is found in the good old town of Ipswich, still flourishes, and is scarcely altered from the days when Mr. Pickwick put up there. Had it not been thus associated, Ipswich would have remained a place obscure and scarcely known, for it has little to attract save one curious old house and some old churches; and for the theatrical antiquary, the remnant of the old theatre in Tacket Street, where Garrick first appeared as an amateur under the name of Lyddal, about a hundred and sixty years ago, and where now the Salvation Army "performs" in his stead. {1} The touch of "Boz" kindled the old bones into life, it peopled the narrow, winding streets with the Grummers, Nupkins, Jingles, Pickwick and his followers; with the immortal lady aforesaid in her yellow curl papers, to say nothing of Mr... Continue reading book >>