Dickens had a deep affection for animals, incorporating them meaningfully into novels. For example, in "David Copperfield" and "Barnaby Rudge," dogs, horses, and birds reflect character traits or advance the plot. Victorian readers appreciated animal symbolism, connecting moral lessons to familiar creatures. Dickens sometimes rescued animals and promoted humane treatment, reflecting social values. His anthropomorphized depictions were humorous yet poignant, teaching empathy. Animals served as metaphors for loyalty, greed, or innocence. This attention enriched narratives, creating vivid, multi-layered worlds. Animal representation reinforced themes of kindness, social hierarchy, and morality.
Animals in Dickens’ novels enhanced moral storytelling and emotional engagement.
It highlights how human-animal relationships can enrich literature, offering insight into ethics, society, and Victorian values.
Did you know Dickens once had a pet raven that accompanied him to his study?
[British Library, britishlibrary.uk]