Lab Activity: CLiC Dickens Project

Hello readers,

This blog post is part of a lab activity assigned by Dilip Barad Sir. It covers the various tasks and discussions related to the CLiC Dickens Project.

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Body Language and Characterisation :-

In stories and plays, the way characters move and use their bodies is crucial and influences how viewers perceive them. Body language involves things like their posture, facial expressions, and gestures. This helps to convey the story and reveal the characters' identities. Developing a character means showing their personality through their actions and traits. For instance, the word "chin" is mentioned 317 times in Dickens's 15 books but only once in Austen's 7 books.

The use of Chin in Dickens's Novels :-

Charles Dickens expertly uses physical descriptions, such as the chin, to enhance character development in his novels. A strong, prominent chin often represents strength, determination, and confidence, while a weak or receding chin may indicate timidity or indecision. Dickens employs these traits to quickly convey a character's personality.

For example, in "Great Expectations," Mr. Jaggers, the lawyer, is depicted with a firm, square chin that complements his authoritative and intimidating presence. On the other hand, Mr. Bumble from "Oliver Twist" has a double chin that underscores his gluttony and self-importance, adding to his comical portrayal.

In "Bleak House," Dickens describes a character as being wrapped up to the chin in a fur cap, which emphasizes the narrator’s perception of the figure as strange or unusual. This detail not only reflects the narrator's emotional state but also helps set the scene's atmosphere. Dickens' use of the word "chin" conveys deeper themes and emotions, enhancing both the characterization and the mood of the narrative.

The use of Chin in 19th Century :-

In 19th-century literature, the chin was often used symbolically to depict character traits. For instance, in Charles Dickens' works, a "firm chin" might symbolize determination or stubbornness, while a "weak chin" might indicate timidity or indecision. Descriptions like Goisvintha's "beardless, retreating chin" contribute to an overall unattractive and bestial portrayal, highlighting the character’s lack of refinement or strength.

Heroes or noble characters were typically given strong, prominent chins to signify their strength and leadership. In contrast, villains might be described with less defined chins to emphasize their unpleasant traits. In Oscar Wilde’s "The Picture of Dorian Gray," Dorian's strong chin underscores his youthful charm, while Lord Henry's chin reflects his power and confidence.

The use of Chin in Jane Austen's Novel :-

In Jane Austen's novels, the chin often represents different aspects of a character's social standing or personality traits. For example, in "Pride and Prejudice," Mr. Darcy’s "proud" chin emphasizes his aloof and haughty demeanor, while Mr. Collins’s "weak" chin highlights his obsequious and submissive nature. Austen uses these physical descriptions to deepen character development and provide social commentary. In Chapter 39 of "Pride and Prejudice," Lydia criticizes a waiter for his "long chin," revealing her own superficial and immature nature. Her focus on the waiter’s appearance rather than his character showcases her frivolity and underscores a broader societal tendency to judge people by their physical features rather than their true qualities.

12: Character and structure in A Christmas Carol: 

This activity examines how certain literary devices and symbols are used across different eras and texts. The goal is to understand how these elements contribute to the themes and character development in stories. The phrase "Once upon a time," commonly used to start fairy tales and children's stories, can be adapted in various ways in literature. Authors might use it to set the scene, begin the narrative, or surprise their audience. Whether used traditionally or creatively, "Once upon a time" is an effective tool for engaging readers and starting the story.

In the 19th century, it was mainly used in fairy tales and folk stories to create a sense of magic and timelessness. These stories often conveyed clear morals and reflected contemporary values, especially for children. Today, in the 21st century, the phrase is used more diversely, often with irony or to subvert traditional storytelling. It appears in various genres, including modern and speculative fiction, to challenge or explore new concepts in storytelling and address current issues.

The Symbolism of the Knocker in Literature: 

In literature, a knocker often symbolizes a transition between different worlds or states. In Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol," the knocker on Scrooge's door transforms into the face of his deceased partner, Jacob Marley. This transformation is significant as it marks the beginning of Scrooge’s journey into the supernatural. It indicates that his ordinary life is about to be disrupted by ghostly events, emphasizing the story's themes of change and redemption.

The Significance of Fire for Scrooge: 

In "A Christmas Carol," fire symbolizes warmth, life, and connection with others, contrasting with Scrooge's cold and miserly nature. Scrooge keeps his office fire small to save money, reflecting his emotional distance. As the story unfolds, fire comes to represent Scrooge's growing warmth and reconnection with people.

Examining how symbols like fire evolve over time helps you understand how stories use these elements to convey deeper meanings and themes. It also provides insight into how literature and culture change.

Thank you…