Charles Dickens (1812-1870) is one of the most famous writers of the nineteenth century. As well as writing 15 novels, numerous short stories, biographies and editing journals, Dickens had a number of hobbies and interests.
The supernatural was a particular favourite of Charles Dickens. He was allegedly a member of the London Ghost Club, an organisation which investigated cases of hauntings. He was also very interested in mesmerism, the Victorian term for hypnosis, and he often practised it on other people, most famously his wife, Catherine.
Dickens also spent a lot of his free time in acting. Before becoming a writer, Dickens had dreamed of being a performer and he spent many years on stage and working as stage manager. He also acted out many scenes from his books while on speaking tours around England and the United States.
Finally, Dickens was a committed philanthropist who spent many hours involved in charitable projects across the country. One of his most famous projects was Urania Cottage, a home for reformed prostitutes which he established in London in 1847.
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