Charles Dickens was a famous English writer and social critic, born on February 7, 1812, in Portsmouth, England. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest novelists of the Victorian era and created some of the most memorable characters in literature.

His early life was marked by hardship. When he was just 12 years old, his father was imprisoned for debt, and Dickens had to work in a factory to support his family. This experience deeply influenced his later writing, as many of his novels address social issues such as poverty and injustice.

Throughout his career, Dickens wrote numerous novels that have become classics. Here are some of his most famous works:

• Oliver Twist (1837) - A story about a young orphan who runs away from a workhouse and meets a group of juvenile criminals.
• A Christmas Carol (1843) - A novella that tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miser who learns the true meaning of Christmas after being visited by three ghosts.
• David Copperfield (1850) - A semi-autobiographical novel that follows the life of David from childhood to adulthood, exploring themes of personal growth and resilience.
• Great Expectations (1860) - The tale of a young boy named Pip who dreams of becoming a gentleman and his encounters with various characters who shape his life.
• A Tale of Two Cities (1859) - Set during the French Revolution, this novel contrasts the lives of characters in London and Paris, highlighting themes of sacrifice and redemption.

Charles Dickens' works often feature vivid characters and intricate plots, and he used his writing to advocate for social reform. He died on June 9, 1870, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to influence literature and culture today.