Questions About Hard Times

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Answered Questions (7)

I have read the book..but I want to ask a question. I don't understand the character of Rachel how she is a representative character for Victorian women?

Jenny H I don't think she's meant to be a 'representative character for Victorian women' - for one thing, Dickens wouldn't have thought of her as a 'Victorian…moreI don't think she's meant to be a 'representative character for Victorian women' - for one thing, Dickens wouldn't have thought of her as a 'Victorian' woman because he was a Victorian himself.
I think Rachael is there as a contrast to Louisa - a good, sensible woman, but one who hasn't been subjected to Louisa's terrible education and isn't afraid to let herself feel.(less)

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Who feels this is still a pertinent read for today?

Selene Taxidis I do, most definitely. Sadly not much has changed despite our advancement technologically. Human emotions/conditions remain the same and quite consist…moreI do, most definitely. Sadly not much has changed despite our advancement technologically. Human emotions/conditions remain the same and quite consistent; greed and envy for example. (less)

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Utilitarianism is considered one of the main themes of Hard Times. Could you explain, and how it was presented?

Lana Ellis Yes, it's there, displayed in different variations by several characters. Firstly, by Mr. Gradgrind and his "facts only, no fancy allowed" philosophy …moreYes, it's there, displayed in different variations by several characters. Firstly, by Mr. Gradgrind and his "facts only, no fancy allowed" philosophy of life and method of educating children. He believes only in things that do not defy logic and serve some purpose. And secondly by Mr. Bounderby who lives his life to gain and prosper no matter what. His self interest and assertion prevailed the feelings to his own mother, not to mention the way he treats his workers. (less)

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Why does Stephen Blackpool refuse to join the union?

Nicola Because Rachael asks him not to, although I'm not sure why she does this.…moreBecause Rachael asks him not to, although I'm not sure why she does this.(less)

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is there bad language in the book?