Books Should Be Free
Loyal Books
Free Public Domain Audiobooks & eBook Downloads
Search by: Title, Author or Keyword

Hard Times (version 2), Locked Out and On Strike

Book cover
By: (1812-1870)

Charles Dickens' novel is a powerful portrayal of the hardships faced by the working class during the Industrial Revolution. The story follows the lives of various characters as they struggle to survive in a world dominated by greed and exploitation.

The novel is filled with vivid descriptions and richly drawn characters, from the cruel factory owner Mr. Bounderby to the downtrodden workers like Stephen Blackpool. Dickens skillfully weaves together their stories, showing how their lives intersect and influence one another.

One of the most compelling aspects of the novel is its exploration of the dehumanizing effects of industrialization on both the workers and the wealthy elite. Dickens exposes the harsh realities of class disparity and the brutal working conditions that drove many to despair.

Overall, "Hard Times" is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that sheds light on the social injustices of its time. Dickens' timeless message about the importance of compassion and empathy still resonates today, making this a must-read for anyone interested in Victorian literature.

Book Description:
Hard Times was Dickens's shortest novel and the only one to be set in the industrial north of England. A fast moving story with a typical cast of larger than life characters, the novel is a vehicle for a humanist critique of both utilitarian education ('Teach these boys and girls nothing but facts', says Mr. Gradgrind in the opening paragraph) and the mutual antagonism between capital and the trade union. A humanist education system, it turns out, is Dickens's solution to the class struggle. Hard Times is set in the fictional Coketown and was partly inspired by a visit to Preston during the factory lockout that brought the town's industry to a standstill in 1853. This version is read as it appeared in 20 issues of Dickens's weekly Household Words from April to August 1854. It is followed by two earlier articles - Locked Out and On Strike - that describe Dickens' visit to Preston and do much to clarify his thinking on education and class conflict.


Stream audiobook and download chapters




Review this book



Popular Genres
More Genres
Languages
Paid Books