Description
Little Dorrit By Charles Dickens 1908, old library book, bit of water damage.
The 1908 edition of Little Dorrit by Charles Dickens is part of the legacy of one of Dickens’ most famous works. Little Dorrit was originally published in serialized form between 1855 and 1857 and was later compiled into a novel. It was one of Dickens’ later works and explored themes of social class, debt, and the bureaucracy of the time.
The 1908 edition would be a vintage copy that falls within the public domain period (since Dickens passed away in 1870, and his works entered the public domain long ago), meaning that a variety of publishers could have released versions of the novel around that time, often with special illustrations or design elements to make them more attractive to readers.
Here’s a bit more about the novel and the 1908 edition:
Plot Overview of Little Dorrit:
- Main Storyline: The novel tells the story of Amy Dorrit, also known as Little Dorrit, who was born and raised in a debtors’ prison in London. Her father, William Dorrit, has spent most of his life in the Marshalsea prison for debt, and the story explores his eventual release and the changes that ensue.
- Themes: Dickens critiques the social and economic systems of the time, particularly the treatment of the poor and those caught in the system of debt. It also features a critique of the bureaucracy and how the impersonal systems of government and institutions shape people’s lives.
- Key Characters:
- Amy Dorrit (Little Dorrit), the sweet, selfless protagonist.
- Arthur Clennam, a man who becomes entangled with the Dorrit family’s plight.
- William Dorrit, Amy’s father, whose situation at the prison is a key focal point.
- Mrs. Gummidge, a widow who is also part of the complex social circles.
- Flora Finching, a secondary character representing a more comic side to the story.
The 1908 Edition:
- Illustrations: Editions published in the early 20th century often had illustrations by artists inspired by Dickens’ characters and settings. These illustrations, which could be in black-and-white or color, would add an artistic element to the reading experience.
- Binding and Presentation: Books from this era might have unique bindings, often with cloth covers, decorative spines, and sometimes gilded lettering or designs. Collectible editions often had elegant touches, such as tissue guards for illustrations or special page layouts.
- Publishing House: In 1908, publishers like Chapman & Hall (who originally published Dickens’ works) and other well-known companies like Macmillan or Penguin (if they were publishing works at that time) might have been involved in bringing out such an edition, though the 1908 publication you’re referring to could be from any number of smaller presses.
Why Collect a 1908 Edition?
- Historical Value: The 1908 edition represents a piece of the literary history of the early 20th century, and collecting it can connect you with the way Dickens’ works were appreciated during that time.
- Illustrations and Artistry: If the 1908 edition includes illustrations, these can add a special artistic layer to the reading experience, making it more immersive.
- Collectibility: Antique or vintage editions like the 1908 version can be collectible, especially in good condition. Old books are often valued by collectors for their historical significance, quality of production, and rarity.
Conclusion:
The 1908 edition of Little Dorrit would be a beautiful and interesting version of Dickens’ novel to have in a collection, especially for those interested in vintage literature or those wanting to enjoy a classic in a historically-accurate format. If you’re looking for one, you might be able to find it through rare bookstores, estate sales, or online auction sites like eBay or rare book dealers
