Charles Dickens (1812–1870) was Britain's first true literary superstar. In his time, he attracted international adulation, and many of his books became instant classics. Today, his popularity continues unabated, and his work remains not only widely read but widely adapted for stage and screen.
The Morgan Library & Museum's collection of Dickens manuscripts and letters is the largest in the United States and is one of the two greatest collections in the world, along with the holdings of Britain's Victoria and Albert Museum. Charles Dickens at 200 celebrates the bicentennial of the great writer's birth in 1812 with manuscripts of his novels and stories, letters, books, photographs, original illustrations, and caricatures. Sweeping in scope, the exhibition captures the art and life of a man whose literary and cultural legacy is unrivaled.
Charles Dickens at 200 is organized by Declan Kiely, the Robert H. Taylor Curator and Department Head of Literary and Historical Manuscripts at the Morgan Library & Museum.
This exhibition is generously underwritten by Fay and Geoffrey Elliott.
Alfred Bryan (1852–1899). Caricature of Charles Dickens, [18--].Gift of Miss Caroline Newton, 1974.1974.7
Charles Dickens (1812–1870), Our Mutual Friend, autograph manuscript, 1862–65. Purchased in 1944; MA 1202–3.