1. Does David Copperfield's childhood bear any resemblance to that of American children in the nineteenth century?

2. Could someone like Edward Murdstone still manipulate a young, innocent woman like Clara Copperfield in today's society? How have societal norms and the legal system in England or America evolved since 1850?

3. Dan'l Peggotty and his family are depicted as lower-class English people. Has Dickens portrayed them in a realistic manner?

4. Although England was somewhat democratic even in 1850, it maintained (and still maintains) a rigid class system. How does Dickens illustrate this in David Copperfield?

5. Dickens is renowned for his skill in creating characters in his fiction. How does he typically present minor characters in David Copperfield?

6. The name "Little Em'ly" is quite sentimental, and she is referred to by this name throughout the novel. Does the reader ever perceive her as a realistic human being?

7. Is Dickens more adept at portraying men than women? How have his personal experiences shaped his views on human personalities?

8. How is London depicted in David Copperfield? It was the largest city in the world in 1850.

9. Lord Byron served as the inspiration for Dickens when creating James Steerforth. Is Steerforth's character accurately portrayed as David's friend?

10. Wilkins Micawber is often considered one of the greatest comic characters in English literature. By what criteria is he deemed comic? Have our perceptions of humor changed since Dickens' era?

11. Outside of strictly religious circles, the term "fallen woman" seems rather outdated today. Do we now hold feminine personalities in higher regard than most Victorians did?

12. Some critics prefer the "child bride" Dora over Agnes Wickfield. Why is this the case?

13. Uriah Heep is a quintessential hypocrite. Is he also a comedic character?

14. Discuss David's friend Tommy Traddles. What role does he play in the novel?

15. Discuss Aunt Betsy Trotwood. While she is eccentric like many of Dickens' characters, she also possesses a stability and wisdom unmatched by others in the novel, possibly excepting Agnes Wickfield. Despite Dickens' intentions, could she be considered as much a heroine as Agnes?