Our Mutual Friend

Summary

«Our Mutual Friend» is the last completed novel by Charles Dickens, in which he explores themes of wealth, poverty, love, and hypocrisy. The plot revolves around the inheritance of John Harmon, who is set to receive a vast fortune if he marries Bella Wilfer. However, John fakes his own death and returns under the name John Rokesmith to discover the true motives of those around him. Meanwhile, Bella, unaware of his true identity, begins to develop feelings for him. Parallel stories unfold, such as that of Lizzie Hexam, who saves Eugene Wrayburn's life, and Mr. and Mrs. Boffin, who become unexpected heirs to the fortune. The novel delves into human vices and virtues, illustrating how money can influence relationships and moral values.

Main Ideas

• Social inequality and class differences: Dickens examines the divide between the rich and the poor, showing how money and social status affect human relationships and moral values.
• Corruption and moral decay: The author addresses the theme of corruption in society, especially among those who seek wealth and power at any cost.
• Love and self-sacrifice: The book presents examples of true love and self-sacrifice, contrasting them with greed and selfishness.
• Identity and self-discovery: The characters undergo processes of self-discovery and change, striving to understand their true nature and place in the world.
• The power and influence of money: Dickens explores how money can both destroy and save lives, and how it impacts human actions and moral principles.

Historical Context and Significance

«Our Mutual Friend» is the last completed novel by Charles Dickens, published in 1864-1865. The book reflects the social and economic realities of Victorian England, criticizing class inequality, corruption, and hypocrisy. It raises themes of morality, love, and human nature, making it an important work for understanding the society of that time. The book's influence on culture is evident in its deep analysis of social structures and human relationships, which remains relevant even in the modern world.

Main Characters and Their Development

• John Harmon - the main character who returns to London under the name John Rokesmith after being presumed dead. He is the heir to a large fortune but decides to conceal his identity to learn the true intentions of those around him. In the process, he falls in love with Bella Wilfer and undergoes internal changes, realizing the value of honesty and love.
• Bella Wilfer - a young woman initially seeking wealth and status. She is engaged to John Harmon, whom she has never met. Throughout the novel, she undergoes significant changes, realizing that true happiness lies not in money but in love and honesty. Ultimately, she falls in love with John Rokesmith, unaware that he is John Harmon.
• Eugene Wrayburn - a lawyer who initially leads a carefree lifestyle. He falls in love with Lizzie Hexam, a girl from a lower class, and his love for her helps him become a more responsible and serious person. His development shows how love can change a person for the better.
• Lizzie Hexam - the daughter of a boatman who faces many hardships and prejudices due to her background. She is a strong and independent woman striving for a better life. Her relationships with Eugene Wrayburn and John Rokesmith demonstrate her inner strength and capacity for compassion.
• Mr. and Mrs. Boffin - a good-natured couple who unexpectedly inherit a large fortune. Mr. Boffin pretends to be greedy and harsh to test those around him, but in reality, he remains kind and generous. Mrs. Boffin supports her husband and shows kindness and care to others.
• Bradley Headstone - a schoolmaster obsessed with Lizzie Hexam. His jealousy and envy lead him to destructive actions. He represents the darker side of human nature, showing how negative emotions can ruin a person's life.

Style and Technique

The novel «Our Mutual Friend» by Charles Dickens is characterized by its complex structure and layered narrative. The author's style is marked by detailed descriptions, rich and expressive language, and a satirical tone. Dickens masterfully uses irony and sarcasm to critique the social vices and injustices of Victorian society. Literary devices include extensive use of metaphors, symbolism, and allegories. The story's structure is built on multiple parallel plot lines that gradually intertwine and converge towards the end. Characters are meticulously crafted and often represent archetypes reflecting various social classes and types. The dialogues in the novel are lively and natural, contributing to the deep characterization of the heroes and their relationships.

Interesting Facts

• This is the last completed novel by Charles Dickens.
• The book explores themes of class inequality and social justice.
• One of the central characters is John Harmon, who fakes his death to discover the true intentions of those around him.
• The novel contains many satirical elements, mocking the greed and hypocrisy of Victorian society.
• There is a mysterious character named Jenny Wren, who is a doll's dressmaker and plays a significant role in the plot's development.
• The book was published in 19 parts from 1864 to 1865.

Book Review

«Our Mutual Friend» by Charles Dickens is one of the author's most complex and layered novels, addressing themes of social injustice, hypocrisy, and human nature. Critics praise Dickens's skill in creating vivid and memorable characters, such as Mr. Veneering and Jenny Wren. Special attention is given to his ability to blend satire with deep empathy for his characters. The novel also stands out for its structure and use of symbolism, making it an important work in Dickens's literary legacy. Some critics point to its excessive verbosity and complex plot, but most agree that it is a significant contribution to Victorian literature.