Little Dorrit, published between 1855 and 1857, is a social critique of Victorian society, focusing on themes of wealth, poverty, love, and the stifling effects of bureaucracy. The novel intertwines the personal struggles of its characters with Dickens’s biting commentary on institutional corruption and societal inequality.
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The Dorrit Family and the Marshalsea Prison
The story begins with William Dorrit, imprisoned in the Marshalsea debtor’s prison for over 20 years due to unpaid debts. Despite his circumstances, he maintains a sense of pride and views himself as the « Father of the Marshalsea, » a title given to the prison’s longest-serving inmate.
William’s youngest daughter, Amy Dorrit, affectionately called « Little Dorrit, » is the heart of the story. A selfless and hardworking young woman, she cares for her father and supports her family by sewing. Amy is devoted to her family, despite their ungratefulness, especially her vain sister, Fanny, and her ineffectual brother, Tip.
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Arthur Clennam’s Return
The story also follows Arthur Clennam, a middle-aged man returning to London after years abroad. Haunted by guilt over his family’s wealth, which he suspects was unjustly obtained, Arthur becomes intrigued by Amy and her family’s plight.
Arthur’s mother, the cold and controlling Mrs. Clennam, runs the family business and holds a secret that could change the Dorrits’ fortunes. Her oppressive household symbolizes the rigid and dehumanizing nature of Victorian institutions.
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The Dorrits’ Sudden Wealth
Arthur investigates the Dorrit family’s situation with the help of Pancks, a shrewd yet well-meaning rent collector. They discover that William Dorrit is the heir to a large fortune, allowing the family to leave the Marshalsea and reclaim their place in society.
The newfound wealth transforms the Dorrits, with William becoming obsessed with maintaining appearances and Fanny seeking to climb the social ladder. However, Amy remains humble and unaffected by their change in fortune.
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The Bureaucracy of the Circumlocution Office
The novel offers a scathing critique of government inefficiency through the Circumlocution Office, a fictional bureaucratic institution that embodies red tape and incompetence. The office obstructs progress and represents the broader societal neglect of the poor and vulnerable.
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Tragedy and Redemption
Despite their wealth, the Dorrits face personal tragedies. William Dorrit succumbs to a mental breakdown and dies, leaving Amy alone and vulnerable. The family’s fortune is later lost due to the collapse of Mr. Merdle’s financial empire, a satirical portrayal of greed and corruption in high society.
Arthur Clennam also faces financial ruin after investing in Merdle’s schemes. He is imprisoned in the Marshalsea, mirroring the Dorrit family’s earlier struggles.
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Love and Resolution
In the novel’s emotional climax, Amy visits Arthur in prison, demonstrating her unwavering loyalty and love. Mrs. Clennam’s secret is revealed: she and her late husband withheld money from the Dorrit family due to a long-standing grudge. Her house collapses in a dramatic scene, symbolizing the destruction of lies and deceit.
The story concludes with Amy and Arthur finding happiness together, united by their shared values of kindness, humility, and resilience.
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Themes and Legacy
Little Dorrit explores themes of social inequality, the dehumanizing effects of wealth, and the failure of institutions to address societal needs. Through its richly drawn characters and biting satire, Dickens critiques both the upper and lower classes, emphasizing the importance of compassion and personal integrity.
The novel is celebrated for its vivid depictions of Victorian life, its memorable characters, and its enduring relevance as a critique of systemic corruption and human resilience.