Charles Dickens’ Hard Times, first published in 1854, is a powerful critique of the social and economic challenges of Victorian England. Set in the grim industrial town of Coketown, Dickens exposes the harsh realities of life for factory workers and the oppressive philosophies of utilitarianism that dominate society.

Through unforgettable characters like Thomas Gradgrind, the strict advocate of facts over imagination, and the suffering mill workers, Dickens weaves a compelling story that highlights the dehumanizing effects of industrialization and rigid social structures. The novel’s vivid descriptions and sharp satire bring to life the struggles of a society torn between progress and compassion.