Little Dorrit

The action in Little Dorrit is set over 30 years before the novel’s publication. In what ways does this time difference affect the narrative and its themes?

Amy is the titular character of the novel and represents qualities that Dickens casts as admirable, like selflessness and duty. Who are the other “good” characters? What traits do they have?

Several characters move between social and economic classes throughout the novel. Analyze how Dickens depicts the act of social climbing in the novel.

Little Dorrit is an indictment of pride. Pick two characters who represent this quality and trace how their stories represent the hazards of pride.

What is your opinion about Amy asking Clennam to burn the will that would have ensured her inheritance? What is the symbolic significance of her having Clennam do this just before they leave the Marshalsea?

How does Dickens use humor in the novel? Explain why you do or do not find it effective.

How is femininity depicted in the text? How does the characterization and experiences of Amy, Fanny, Flora, and Pet reflect Victorian conventions about womanhood or challenge such conventions?

In many ways, Rigaud is a foil to Amy since he represents selfishness and Amy represents selflessness. Trace their character arcs and point out three ways in which the characters are complete contrasts. Are there any other sets of foils within the novel?