David Copperfield and Great Expectations are among Charles Dickens's most famous novels. In both books, the hero tells the vivid and absorbing tale of his education by life, presents a rich range of characters and scenes, and tackles profound moral, social and psychological themes.

Part I of this essential study:

• Provides lucid and penetrating analyses of key passages
• Discusses the crucial topics of patriarchy, class, obsession, eccentricity, death, breakdown and recovery
• Summarizes the methods of analysis and offers suggestions for further work

Part II supplies key background material, including:

• An account of Dickens's life and works
• A survey of historical, cultural and literary contexts
• Samples of significant criticism

Also featuring a valuable Further Reading section, this volume provides readers with the critical and analytical skills which will enable them to enjoy and explore both novels for themselves.