Charles Dickens, Christmas, and the World of the Victorians with Dr. Julie Taddeo
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Step back in time and right into holiday spirits, as this talk puts Dickens and Christmas within the larger social context of 19th Century Victorian Britain. Did Dickens’ story actually challenge the cruel class structure of Victorian society? Why has Dickens been credited with the “invention” of Christmas, and how did this holiday become a distinctly Victorian tradition that influences how we celebrate it today? These issues and more will be covered as we travel back to the age of workhouses, plum puddings, and the Queen who gave her name to this era. Allow Dickens’ text to come alive within its historical framework and, in turn, illustrate what daily life was truly like in Victorian Britain.
Led by Professor Julie Taddeo, an expert in British history, we will use Dickens' short novel as a window into the social structure of Victorian England, attitudes about poverty and charity, and learn why this classic story lives so brightly in our collective holiday season today.
Dr. Julie Taddeo is Research Professor of History at University of Maryland. Her area of expertise is Modern British social and cultural history. She has published several books on such topics as the Bloomsbury Group, Steampunk, British period drama television, and reality TV.
This conversation is suitable for all ages.
90 minutes, including a 30 minute Q&A.
Fascinating seminar which I highly recommend.
I am again in awe of the content and presentation style of Dr Taddeo. This fact-filled seminar about Dickens and the background history of that time in Victorian England was impactful. A mixture of information about his life, the segments of the book (a literary ghost tale which also explores the moral and social issues of the era), family life at that time for both rich and poor, and London life were covered. Love Dr Taddeo's enthusiasm over Zoom for her subject. I watched it live and re-watched the recording to ensure I grasped all the valuable and fascinating information about a favorite holiday story!
This was a very informative and fantastic look at the Dickens Christmas Carol, along with the history of the Christmas celebration during the Victorian era. I would highly recommend. Dr. Taddeo's presentation was excellent. Will be looking for more of her presentations.