Claire's Notes
Online English tutorials
for GCSE and beyond
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The Nineteenth Century Novel
"It was on the moral side, and in my own person, that I learned to recognize the thorough and primitive duality of man."
Robert Louis Stevenson's The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde is a gripping exploration of duality and the darker facets of human nature. Set in Victorian London, the novella follows Dr Henry Jekyll's scientific experiments, which unleash his malevolent alter ego, Mr Edward Hyde. Stevenson masterfully delves into themes of morality, identity, and the consequences of unchecked desires. Through vivid characterizations and suspenseful plot twists, he challenges readers to ponder the complexities of good and evil within individuals. As a GCSE student, delving into this Gothic classic offers profound insights into psychological conflicts and societal expectations of the era.
"Snow had begun to fall, and was falling, like a Christmas card, upon that sacred day."
Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol is a timeless novella that explores the transformative journey of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old man visited by ghosts on Christmas Eve. Through vivid descriptions and moral lessons, Dickens portrays themes of redemption, generosity, and the spirit of Christmas. Scrooge's evolution from a solitary, self-centred figure to one of compassion and goodwill resonates with readers of all ages, offering profound insights into human nature and the importance of empathy. As a GCSE student, delving into this classic tale not only enriches literary understanding but also reveals Dickens' enduring message of hope and redemption.
Great Expectations by Charles Dickens
"The most prominent object was a long table with a tablecloth spread on it, as if a feast had been in preparation when the house and the clocks all stopped together."
coming soon
Great Expectations by Charles Dickens is a timeless novel that explores themes of ambition, social class, and personal growth through the life of its protagonist, Pip. Set in Victorian England, the story follows Pip’s journey from a humble orphan raised by his sister to a gentleman of "great expectations," shaped by a mysterious benefactor and life-altering encounters. Dickens masterfully weaves a narrative rich in vivid characters, from the bitter Miss Havisham to the kind-hearted Joe Gargery, reflecting the complexities of human nature and the consequences of our choices. This coming-of-age tale remains a poignant exploration of identity and the pursuit of true happiness.