Hard Times

Set in the industrial town of Coketown, this Victorian novel explores themes of class conflict, social injustice, and the human condition. Through its characters, it delves into the complexities of friendship and betrayal, love and hate, reflecting the stark realities of life during the Industrial Revolution. Notably, it is Dickens' shortest full novel and offers a critical perspective on the struggles faced by workers against capitalistic mill owners. The narrative serves as a poignant commentary on the societal pressures of the era, making it a significant state-of-the-nation work.