Question

In 150 words or less, explain how Mr. Gradgrind is an example of Dickens' concern with effects of the Industrial Revolution.

Answer 1

Answer:

Gradgrind is an example of mechanizing effects of Industrialization in the novel 'Hard Times.'

Explanation:

'Hard Times' is a novel written by Charles Dickens. The novel is set in a fictitious place called Coketown during Victorian Industrial period.

The book is filled with the mechanizing effects of Inustrialization. And the major proponent of this effect in the book is Mr. Gradgrind along with his follower, Bounderby.

Gradgrind, in his classroom, teaches a group of students that the facts are the true key to good education, and not imagination or emotions. His teachings have great effects on his students, especially seen in the life of Louisa and Tom, who became numb towards emotions and imaginations.

In chapter 1, of the novel, Gradgrind is seen teaching his students that the life should be governed solely by rules and facts, and not by imagination and emotions.

This teachings by Gradgrind turns his students into little machines who works according to the rules. Through the life of Gradgrind, Dickens managed to convey the message to its readers the dangers of human machines. Dickens is conveyiing that if humans became machine without emotions or imaginations, without love and compassion, the life in the societyy would become difficult.