Throughout his writing life, Dickens sought to tell his story of a young man who, born into confusion, ultimately finds order in his life, often in spite of his family background. One of Dickens' most memorable orphans, David Copperfield, begins as a happy child living with his kind mother and nurse Peggotty until his mother remarries. This leads to the arrival of the cruel Mr. Murdstone and his equally harsh sister, Miss Murdstone, who bring darkness into David's home. His mother is unable to protect him, and after a pivotal moment, David is sent away. He enjoys a blissful visit with Peggotty's family in their boat house, where he befriends the beloved Em'ly, before being sent to school. There, he meets significant friends, including the charming Steerforth and the unlikely hero Tommy Traddles. Following his mother's death, David returns home and encounters Mr. Micawber, a character inspired by Dickens' own father's financial struggles. After experiencing the chaos of the Micawber household, David meets his outspoken aunt, Betsy Trotwood, and the young Agnes Wickfield, who becomes his guiding star. Returning to school, David faces the manipulative Uriah Heep, setting the stage for life-altering events.
