Folklore, legends and myths in Dombey and Son
Legendary folklore in Dombey and Son (1848) by Charles Dickens. / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Dombey and Son, published in 1848, draws heavily from popular literature inspired by legendary folklore, contemporary melodramas, and traditional pantomime. It also incorporates certain fashionable songs, particularly those celebrating the maritime world, and, to a lesser extent, some fairy tales and ancient myths like Argus or the Cyclops.
This article is written like a personal reflection, personal essay, or argumentative essay that states a Wikipedia editor's personal feelings or presents an original argument about a topic. (May 2024) |
Author | Charles Dickens |
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Country | England |
Language | English |
Genre | Novel |
Published | 1848 |
Publisher | Bradbury and Evans |
ISBN | 1-85326-257-9 |
Preceded by | Martin Chuzzlewit |
Followed by | David Copperfield |
All these influences are stripped of their burlesque or solemn aspect and enriched with a moral and spiritual depth, yet they maintain their original structure with characters destined to face trials and, as the case may be, potential deaths, or opportunities for rebirth. This aligns well with the novel's theme of punishing the wicked, subtly rewarding the virtuous, and redeeming the protagonist, Mr. Dombey. Through a journey of self-reflection and the trials imposed by fate, the character ultimately confronts his own flaws and finds a path toward enlightenment.
Nevertheless, this serious aspect of the novel often takes on a playful tone, allowing Dickens to infuse elements of comedy and satire, as evidenced. This is exemplified by the diverse cast of characters who become subjects of his wit and criticism.