American Notes by Charles Dickens

Author: Charles Dickens | Published: 1842

American Notes Synopsis

American Notes for General Circulation is a travelogue by Charles Dickens, published in 1842. The travelogue describes his journey around North America from January to June 1842. He served as a critical observer of North American society while there, almost as if he were providing a status update on their development upon his return. This can be contrasted with the tone of his Pictures from Italy, written four years later and in a much more tourist-like manner. His trip to the United States inspired his book Martin Chuzzlewit. After arriving in Boston, he journeyed to Lowell, New York, and Philadelphia. He also made stops in Richmond, St. Louis, and Niagara Falls before returning to Boston via Lowell, New York, and Philadelphia.

Dickens was generally impressed by the natural beauty of America, but he was critical of many aspects of American society, including the widespread poverty, the lack of public education, and the institution of slavery. He was also critical of the American press, which he felt was too sensationalist and self-promoting.

About Charles Dickens

Charles Dickens is considered one of the greatest writers in English literature. His work has had a lasting impact on both readers and writers alike, and he remains one of the most widely-read authors of all time. Dickens was born in 1812 in Portsmouth, England, and became a prolific writer. His most famous works include Great Expectations, A Tale Of Two Cities, and Oliver Twist – all of which have been adapted into film or television adaptations. He also wrote many popular Christmas stories, such as A Christmas Carol and The Cricket on The Hearth, that are still read today. Through his writing, Charles Dickens provided insight into the social conditions at the time, highlighting issues like poverty and class struggles that were so prominent during the Victorian era. Find out more about Charles Dickens at sevenov.com.