LONDON — Today is the 200th anniversary of the birth of the 19th century novelist Charles Dickens, who like William Shakespeare, transformed the English language and culture. Dickens used words to paint a gripping picture of Victorian England but described themes, situations and personalities that remain modern and fresh. Many of Dickens’ phrases continue to resonate in our language and affect the way we look at the world – consider the impact of Dicken’s “Christmas Carol” on our Yuletide holiday —”Bah humbug” and “God bless us, every one!” and the theme of redemption and empathy as the cruel Scrooge who feels the fires of perdition after a ghostly intervention.
Tuesday, Feb. 7, 3 p.m.
