David Copperfield by Charles Dickinson

Abstract

The novel, David Copperfield written by Charles Dickinson is not only an interesting read but has an unique style of writing for its opening. A young boy named David Copperfield starts off his narrative with the words, “Whether I shall turn out to be the hero of my own life, or whether that station will be held by anybody else, these pages must show” (Dickens, 5). Automatically, one can conclude the narration is in the first person view. The speaking voice is strong and precise questioning the meaning of the character's own destiny as well as his identity. There is a sense of uncertainty on who will control and inspire the moments in his life. The use of the word, “must” stands out. One can conclude there are interesting and important events that did in fact happen and must be made immortal by his account of those events.

The character of David Copperfield is quite spectacular. It is unclear whether or not this autobiographical writing is written when he was an adult or as the experiences happened in his childhood state. In either case, the words and memories are on an intellectual level above the standard IQ of a young boy. What was most enjoyable about the beginning of the novel was the sense of historical value of David's life. Automatically, he recounts the superstitions of the time periods of prophets predicting his life and the worthiness of his “caul” upon being born. After that, he goes into detail about where he was born and the death of his father; leaving his mother in an emotional and vulnerable state. This I sense foreshadows the fears and uncertainties of a male figure being portrayed in his childhood life as well as the possessive feelings he has towards that of his mother. The author was successful in giving the character's a life of their own.