Great Misconceptions: The Dickens You Didn't Know with Dr. Helena Kelly

History Rage

Prepare to have your Victorian illusions shattered in this enthralling episode of History Rage, where we rip the veil off the scandalous secrets of Charles Dickens. Our host, Paul Babel, is joined by Dr. Helena Kelly, author of "The Life and Lives of Charles Dickens," to dissect the myths surrounding one of literature's most enigmatic figures.

Dickens Unveiled: The Truth Behind the Affair (00:02:15):

- Helena challenges the long-held belief that Dickens was preoccupied with keeping his affair with Ellen Turner a secret.

- We unravel the complexities of Dickens' personal life, from his questionable relationships with younger women to the potential existence of a secret child.

The Breakdown of a Marriage (00:20:05):

- Dive into the tumultuous marriage of Charles and Catherine Dickens, exploring the factors that led to their eventual separation.

- Helena provides insight into the societal pressures and personal struggles that marred their union.

Dickens and the Media: A Love-Hate Relationship (00:35:10):

- Examine how Dickens' fame and the Victorian media's portrayal of his private life influenced public perception.

- Helena discusses the Staplehurst rail accident and its implications for Dickens' and Ellen's reputations.

Debunking Platonic Theories (00:45:53):

- Helena addresses the skeptics and presents compelling evidence to counter the notion of a purely platonic relationship between Dickens and Turner.

- We confront the various biographical interpretations and the challenges of piecing together a historical love affair.

Conclusion (00:58:40):

- This episode offers a raw look at the darker side of Dickens' life, challenging the sanitized image of the beloved author.

- Join us as we peel back the layers of secrecy and discover the true Dickens – a man as flawed as he was talented.

For further enlightenment, grab a copy of Helena's penetrating book on Dickens from The History Rage Bookshop and follow her on Twitter @MSAshtonDennis.

Don't forget to unleash your thoughts on Twitter @HistoryRage using the hashtag #HistoryRage. Join our 'Angry Mob' on Patreon for exclusive perks, including early episode access and the esteemed History Rage mug, at patreon.com/historyrage.

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