Martin Chuzzlewit (Revised) by Charles Dickens

Charles Dickens’ Martin Chuzzlewit is a masterful comedic work that showcases the author’s growing exploration of human nature. As his biographer, Forster, observed, this novel represents a significant turning point in Dickens’ career as he delves deeper into the intricacies of character. The story revolves around Old Martin Chuzzlewit, who is plagued by the avarice and self-centeredness of his own family. This leads him to push his grandson, young Martin, into embarking on a life-altering journey to America.

This voyage holds immense consequences not only for young Martin himself, but also for his grandfather and his beloved Mary Graham, who serves as his grandfather’s servant and the object of his affection. Resonating with contemporary relevance, the narrative also encompasses themes of commercial deceit through the exploitative practices of the Anglo-Bengalee company and the fraudulent Eden Land Corporation.

Dickens’ expertise in crafting engrossing crime sub-plots is evident in Martin Chuzzlewit, with vividly drawn characters such as the villainous Jonas Chuzzlewit, the eccentric nurse Mrs Gamp, and the hypocritical Seth Pecksniff. These characters stand shoulder to shoulder with the memorable figures from his other renowned works.

Furthermore, Dickens captivates readers with his vivid depiction of the London boarding-house known as “Todgers,” a setting that has delighted generations of readers.