Parents' Guide to David Copperfield

Charles' Dickens semi-autobiographical novel DAVID COPPERFIELD begins on the night of the title character's birth, when David's paternal aunt, Betsey Trottwood, pays a visit to his widowed mother. Young David is doted on by his sweet, young mother and his devoted nurse, Peggotty, who takes David to Yarmouth, where he develops strong friendships with her brother and his family. Meanwhile, Mrs. Copperfield -- who is susceptible to flattery -- has been taken in by the hard-hearted Mr. Murdstone, who soon becomes David's cruel, demanding stepfather. David's life goes from bad to worse when he is sent away to a school where students are mistreated and the richest pupils lord it over the less privileged. David's saving grace is his friendship with the Micawber family, who are always broke and looking for a break. When the Micawbers leave town, seeking greener pastures, David feels alone, and he decides to strike out on his own, to try his luck with a relative he's never met. The story follows David's path as he comes into adulthood, portraying his friendships, loves, education and career, and the ways he tries to protect his loved ones.