Charles Dickens was in financial trouble when he published A Christmas Carol in December 1843. The young author of The Posthumous Papers of The Pickwick Club (1837) and Oliver Twist (1838) had achieved rapid success in the publishing world, but just as quickly his reputation began to wane. His sixth novel, Martin Chuzzlewit (1843-1844), was not well received. Now married and with four children, Dickens suddenly found himself unpopular and in debt.
Then he had an idea. Dickens approached his London publishers, Chapman & Hall, with a proposal for a small Christmas book that could be given as a gift for the upcoming holiday season. But the publishers wanted no part of it. Dickens was already a business liability and few people celebrated Christmas in 1843. Nevertheless, with Dickens fronting the publishing costs, Chapman & Hall took a chance on A Christmas Carol.
Charles Dickens wrote his Christmas story in just six weeks. He also managed every detail of its publication from John Leach’s memorable color woodcuts—the only color plates Dickens ever used in his novels—to the blue and red title page, which was originally printed in green and red. Dickens even insisted on the red cloth book covers with embossed gilt lettering on the front cover and spine. When A Christmas Carol appeared on December 19, 1843, it cost a whopping 5 shillings—about $33 in today’s money. But the book was well received. Its initial print run of more than 6,000 copies sold out in just a week, and Dickens’ reputation was revived. In fact, A Christmas Carol became so popular that four other Dickens Christmas books followed: The Chimes: A Goblin Story of Some Bells that Rang an Old Year Out and a New Year In (1845), The Cricket on the Hearth (1846), The Battle For Life: A Love Story (1846), and The Haunted Man and The Ghost’s Bargain (1848).
First edition, first printing points for A Christmas Carol are numerous. Reputable rare book dealers can assist with these, but be prepared to dig deep for a true first edition. Asking prices for a first edition of A Christmas Carol can range from $12,000 to $35,000, depending on condition. If the price point is too steep, don’t despair. Antique facsimile editions of all five of Dickens’ Christmas books can be had for around $250 for the set.
As a literary enthusiast with a profound understanding of Charles Dickens and his works, I can assure you of my expertise in the subject matter. My knowledge extends beyond the surface details, delving into the intricate aspects of Dickens' life, his struggles, and the historical context in which he wrote. Allow me to substantiate my authority by providing a comprehensive overview of the concepts embedded in the provided article.
1. Financial Turmoil and Publication Strategy: Charles Dickens, despite early success with works like "The Pickwick Club" and "Oliver Twist," faced financial difficulties following the lukewarm reception of "Martin Chuzzlewit" in 1843-1844. With a diminishing reputation and growing debts, Dickens conceived a solution by proposing a Christmas book to his publishers, Chapman & Hall, despite Christmas not being widely celebrated in 1843.
2. A Christmas Carol: Rapid Creation and Unique Features: Dickens, determined to revitalize his career, wrote "A Christmas Carol" in a remarkably short span of six weeks. He took charge of every aspect of its publication, incorporating John Leach’s color woodcuts, a distinctive blue and red title page, and insisting on red cloth book covers with embossed gilt lettering. This attention to detail set the book apart.
3. Initial Reception and Revival: Released on December 19, 1843, at the cost of 5 shillings (equivalent to about $33 today), "A Christmas Carol" received a warm reception. The initial print run of over 6,000 copies sold out within a week, effectively reviving Dickens' reputation as an author.
4. Subsequent Christmas Books by Dickens: The success of "A Christmas Carol" paved the way for four more Christmas books by Dickens: "The Chimes" (1845), "The Cricket on the Hearth" (1846), "The Battle For Life" (1846), and "The Haunted Man and The Ghost’s Bargain" (1848). These works further solidified Dickens' association with Christmas literature.
5. Rarity and Value of First Editions: The article touches upon the rarity and value of first editions of "A Christmas Carol." Dickens' insistence on specific details in the first edition makes it a sought-after collector's item. Reputable rare book dealers can assist in identifying first edition points, with prices ranging from $12,000 to $35,000 based on condition.
6. Alternatives for Enthusiasts: For those who may find the cost prohibitive, the article suggests exploring antique facsimile editions of all five of Dickens’ Christmas books. These sets are more accessible, with a price point of around $250.
In conclusion, Charles Dickens' strategic approach to publishing "A Christmas Carol" not only rescued him from financial troubles but also left an indelible mark on literature, establishing a tradition of Christmas-themed literature that endures to this day. The article underscores the significance of Dickens' work, both in its historical context and as a valuable collectible for literary enthusiasts.
