How Charles Dickens explored the psychology and causes of Victorian crime
In short: Discover how the author of Nicholas Nickleby used his fascination with London's criminal underworld to investigate the shifting landscape of justice and penology in the 19th century.
Dr Tony Williams explores how Dickens's personal fears of becoming a 'little robber' influenced his literary focus on criminal activity. The lecture examines the profound societal shifts during Dickens's life, including the 1829 establishment of the Metropolitan Police and the 1842 launch of the Detective Force and Pentonville's New Model Prison. It also covers the era's transition away from public executions and transportation, set against the emergence of 'penology' as a term in 1838.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: 'This ain't the shop for justice': Crime in Dickens's London - Dr Tony Williams
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/ideas-this-ain-t-the-shop-for-justice-crime-in-dickens-s-london-dr.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
