The Representation of Fallen Women in David Copperfield

The Representation of Fallen Women in David Copperfield

In the 1840s and 1850s, there was a considerable amount of literary works which concerned prostitution and other sexual transgressions and, where women who had lost their virtue were severely condemned as fallen women. Charles Dickens (1812-1870) challenged the idea that fallen women were the source of disease, moral pollution and degradation when they lost their chastity. Little Emily and Martha in David Copperfield (1849-50) re-evaluate the popular misconceptions about fallen women. They are described as both victims and subjects of exploitation and betrayal in Dickens’ novels. Dickens criticises the cruelty of society, people, and social value towards fallen women. He illustrates the causes of downfalls of fallen women and the cures for the disgraceful condition. It is undeniable that Dickens sees the goodness in fallen women and questions the prevailing image of corruption.

As for Emily, she is first introduced in David Copperfield as an orphan who is later brought up as a daughter of a fisherman by Mr. Peggotty and Mrs. Gummidge in a little cabin in Yarmouth. Ham, who is another orphan, is Emily’s future fiancé. The family forms a warm and peaceful home though they are poor. As David’s impression on Emily at their first meeting illustrates, Emily is presented as a young, honest, innocent, pure, and attractive girl. She comes across to the readers almost as an angel............................................................................

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