Conclusion.

To conclude, after researching the ways Dickens’ use of food within his work I have discovered that he frequently employs food as a representation of the social class of characters; food as status is a major theme which can be seen throughout many of his novels. He also uses food as a setting, if multiple character’s attend a meal it gives a valid excuse for as to why characters may be seen in the same location at the same time. Thus opening up the narrative for action; for example, the degradation of Pip during Christmas dinner, or Scrooge witnessing the impoverish representation of the Cratchit’s family meal. Further still, Dicken’s tends to use food to embody a character; for example, Peggotty’s body is compared to apples which represents her status as a cook (the provider of food) and even sheds light on how the character’s physical appearance may be (red and plump). Dicken’s utilizes food as a physical descriptor, social status and emotive exploration. Every reader of any age from all level of class has had some experience of food. In this way the novels become relatable, a physical familiarity between narrative and reader is created. It can be emotive like the lack of love Pip receives from Mrs Joe’s meals or visceral like Oliver’s measly gruel from the work house. Food tends to add more dimention to the narrative and further engages the reader.