"David Copperfield"

Paper Summary:

The paper examines the character of Mrs. Peggotty, a nurse and caretaker who looks after David Copperfield because his mother is incapable of providing the required mothering. The paper demonstrates how Mrs. Peggotty's love for and devotion to David are obvious throughout the novel.

From the Paper:

"David Copperfield is a classic example of a coming-of-age novel that chronicles the journey of a young orphaned child from his impoverished state to wealth and wisdom. Throughout this journey, some characters play an important role in shaping his character and filling the holes in his personality. One such character is that of Mrs. Peggotty, a nurse and caretaker who looks after Copperfield, as his mother is incapable of providing the required mothering. Peggotty is always referred to in loving terms such as "that honest soul" (p17) and "That good creature--I mean Peggotty" (p. 447) and "my good old nurse" (p. 853) to acknowledge her love and loyalty for David. She also looks out for David after the tragic and untimely death of his mother. Mills (2000) correctly points out that, "David starts life having, in effect, two mothers: Clara, who is both child-like and childish, and Peggotty, who has traditional maternal qualities and who, in effect, mothers them both." (p. 51)"

Sample of Sources Used:

• Charles Dickens, The Works of Charles Dickens (New York: Books, 1936)
• Jean and Richard Mills. Childhood Studies: A Reader in Perspectives of Childhood.: Routledge. London. 2000

More papers on "David Copperfield":

• Analytical Essay # 33601 : "David Copperfield"
• Book Review # 98847 : "David Copperfield, the Character"
• Analytical Essay # 30832 : "David Copperfield"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: