A Child’s History of England is a book by Charles Dickens, first published in serial form between 1851 and 1853, and later as a complete volume in 1854. Written during the height of Dickens’ literary fame, the work was originally intended for his own children, offering them a simplified but engaging overview of English history. Covering the period from ancient Britain up to the reign of William and Mary, Dickens presents historical events through a moral and often critical lens, emphasizing the dangers of tyranny, religious persecution, and social injustice. Although not a scholarly history, the book reflects Dickens’ deep concern for the moral lessons of the past and his reformist attitudes. His portrayals of monarchs and political figures are often coloured by his Victorian values, lending the work a distinct perspective that differs from more conventional histories. Despite this, it remains a compelling introduction to English history, blending narrative flair with vivid characterizations that reflect the author’s mastery of storytelling. The work has endured as both a curiosity of Dickens’ bibliography and a piece of popular historical writing in its own right.
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