David Copperfield is the common name of the eighth novel by Charles Dickens, first published as a novel in 1850. Its full title is The Personal History, Adventures, Experience and Observation of David Copperfield the Younger of Blunderstone Rookery (Which He Never Meant to Publish on Any Account). Like most of his works, it originally appeared in serial form during the two preceding years. Many elements of the novel follow events in Dickens’ own life, and it is probably the most autobiographical of his novels.
Of all my books, I like this the best. It will be easily believed that I am a fond parent to every child of my fancy, and that no one can ever love that family as dearly as I love them. But, like many fond parents, I have in my heart of hearts a favourite child. And his name is DAVID COPPERFIELD.
Preface to the 1869 edition.
Publication.
David Copperfield was originally published in twenty monthly parts, in nineteen issues between May 1849 to November 1850. The last issue was a double-number. It was illustrated by Phiz (Hablot Knight Browne).
Personal circumstances.
David Copperfield was written whilst Charles Dickens was living at Devonshire Terrace. He also wrote parts whilst holidaying at Fort House, Broadstairs.
Read David Copperfield.
You can read all of David Copperfield on The Circumlocution Office. If you want the location of particular David Copperfield pages or chapters for reference or academic purposes you can use our study links page.