Dickens the chronicler of Victorian London

London provided the pulse of Dickens writing. His encyclopaedic knowledge of London gained from his childhood and throughout his life provides a unique and shocking record of mid Victorian London and has stayed in our imagination ever since.

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Key course information

Date
09/10/11

Day(s)
Sun

Duration
1 week

Time
10:30 - 15:30

Fees
Full fee: £38^NC

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
HH331

Availability
This course has finished

^NC: No concessionary fees available as there is no government funding for this course.

This course has finished

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Still got questions?
humanities@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2652

Course outline

What is the course about?

This introductory course will explore the life and legacy of one of England’s greatest novelist on the eve of his bicentenary. It will focus on his fascination with London, a dominant influence on his life and a major theme of many of his novels.

What topics will we cover?

The course will give an outline of Dickens` eventful biography, his prolific and hugely popular work (his literature, journalism, travel writings, dramatic readings, Christmas stories etc.) and his obsession with poverty, education and childhood. Dickens was a larger than life celebrity during his lifetime and helped to shape sympathetic Victorian attitudes. In addition the course will discuss how his vivid writing has formed our popular imagination of the Victorian metropolis.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

Identify key some themes in Dickens` work.
Link these themes to his writing about London.
Discuss how these works have affected our own perceptions of London.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This is an `introductory` course and does not assume previous study or reading although you will need a good grasp of English to keep up with the course. As with most of our courses, an open mind and a willingness to listen to and think about views with which you do not always agree are more important than specific levels of skills. An enthusiasm for Dickens and some prior reading of his novels will enhance your enjoyment of the course but is not a requirement.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Tutor presentations, discussion and examination of some texts.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

A notebook would be helpful.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Other 'History Sunday' courses.

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2652

humanities@citylit.ac.uk

Advice times:

During term-time Monday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30

Non term-time Monday 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30.

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.