This article critically examines Charles Dickens?s literary career to argue that he functions more as a social compromiser than a reformer. Through an analysis of Dickens?s novels, journalism, letters, and engagement with Victorian culture, the study explores his treatment of urban society, poverty, capitalism, class relations, family, childhood, gender roles, and moral values. Drawing on Althusser?s theory of ideology and ideological state apparatuses, the paper contends that Dickens largely reinforces dominant middle-class ideologies by promoting social harmony, moral discipline, and docile citizenship rather than radical reform. While Dickens exposes social evils and shows compassion for the oppressed, the article concludes that his fiction ultimately supports mainstream values and helps internalize prevailing ideologies, positioning him as a compromiser aligned with the demands of his transitional age.
Professor, P. G. Centre of English, Gaya College, Magadh University, Bodh Gaya
