Ministry of higher education, science and innovations of the republic of uzbekistan

 
 

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CHAPTER I. DIRECT CHARACTERIZATION 
1.1. Description of physical appearance 
«The Posthumous Papers of the Pickwick Club» is a novel written by Charles 
Dickens, first published in 1836. The book is a series of loosely connected comedic 
stories that follow the adventures of the Pickwick Club members as they travel 
through England. One of the recurring themes in the novel is the physical appearance 
of the characters, which often plays a significant role in their portrayal and 
interactions with others. In this coursework, we will explore the descriptions of 
physical appearance in «The Posthumous Papers of the Pickwick Club» and how 
they contribute to the overall themes of the novel. 
In Victorian society, physical appearance played a crucial role in determining 
one’s social status and success. The ideal beauty standards were defined by the upper 
classes, who considered themselves to be the epitome of elegance and sophistication. 
This led to the development of strict norms and values concerning physical 
appearance, such as the ideal body shape, facial features, and dress style. 
Those who failed to conform to these beauty standards often faced social 
ostracism and discrimination. They were considered inferior and deemed unworthy 
of social status or respect. This is exemplified in the novel by the character of Joe, a 
simple-minded but kind-hearted servant who is constantly ridiculed for his physical 
appearance by the aristocratic characters. 
The physical appearance of the characters in «The Posthumous Papers of the 
Pickwick Club» is used as a tool for characterization. The way a character looks 
often reflects their personality, social status, and moral values. This is demonstrated 
through the descriptions of characters such as Mr. Pickwick, who is described as 
«portly», «jolly», and «good-natured», reflecting his friendly and amiable 
personality.
2
2
Stone, Harry. Dickens and the Invisible World: Fairy Tales, Fantasy, and Novel-Making. - United 
States: University of Michigan Press. 2004. - 280 p. 

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However, the use of appearance for characterization also highlights the irony 
and hypocrisy of Victorian society. Many characters who are described as physically 
attractive, such as the deceitful Jingle and the greedy Winkle, are portrayed as 
immoral and selfish. This subverts the societal expectation that physical beauty 
equates to moral goodness. 
In «The Posthumous Papers of the Pickwick Club», Charles Dickens uses 
physical appearance to explore the themes of social status, morality, and character 
development. Through the descriptions of the characters, he highlights the strict 
beauty standards and social expectations of Victorian society, as well as the irony 
and hypocrisy of appearance-based characterization. Overall, the novel provides a 
commentary on the societal attitudes towards physical appearance during the 
Victorian era, which still resonates in modern times.
3
During the Victorian era, physical appearance was a crucial aspect of social 
status and success. The upper classes defined the ideal beauty standards, which were 
based on a set of strict norms and values concerning physical appearance. These 
standards were used to distinguish the upper classes from the lower classes and to 
reinforce the social hierarchy. 
One of the most significant aspects of the ideal beauty standards was body 
shape. Women were expected to have a slender waist, a rounded bust, and a full 
figure. This was achieved through the use of corsets, which were tightly laced to 
create a slim waistline and enhance the bust. The ideal body shape was considered 
to be a symbol of femininity and elegance. 
Facial features were also important in Victorian beauty standards. Women were 
expected to have delicate features such as a small nose, high cheekbones, and a clear 
complexion. Makeup was used to enhance these features and create a flawless 
appearance. However, too much makeup was considered vulgar and was associated 
with lower-class women. 
3
Rance, Nicholas. The Historical Novel and Popular Politics in Nineteenth-Century England. - United 
Kingdom: Cambridge University Press. 2010. - 308 p. 

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Dress style was another crucial aspect of Victorian beauty standards. Women 
were expected to wear elegant and modest clothing that covered most of their body. 
The clothing was made of luxurious fabrics such as silk, satin, and velvet, and was 
often adorned with intricate embroidery and lace. Men were also expected to dress 
elegantly, wearing suits and hats that reflected their social status. 
The ideal beauty standards were enforced through social pressure and media 
influence. Magazines and newspapers promoted these standards, featuring articles 
on beauty tips, fashion, and etiquette. Social events such as balls and parties were 
also opportunities for individuals to showcase their adherence to these standards. 
However, not everyone was able to conform to the ideal beauty standards. 
Those who failed to meet these standards were often ridiculed and ostracized by 
society. This led to a culture of body shaming and discrimination, where physical 
appearance was used to judge a person’s worth and social status. The ideal beauty 
standards in Victorian society were defined by the upper classes and enforced 
through social pressure and media influence. These standards were based on strict 
norms and values concerning body shape, facial features, and dress style. Those who 
failed to meet these standards faced social ostracism and discrimination, highlighting 
the importance of physical appearance in Victorian society.
4
In Victorian society, deviating from the ideal beauty standards had significant 
consequences. Those who failed to meet these standards were often subjected to 
social ostracism and discrimination, which could have a lasting impact on their lives. 
One of the groups that faced the most discrimination was the working class. 
They did not have access to the same resources as the upper classes to conform to 
the beauty standards. For example, they could not afford expensive clothing or 
beauty treatments. As a result, they were often ridiculed and discriminated against 
for their physical appearance. 
Women were particularly vulnerable to these beauty standards. They were 
expected to have a specific body shape and facial features, and failure to meet these 
4
Patten, Robert L. Charles Dickens and "Boz": The Birth of the Industrial-Age Author. - United States: 
Cambridge University Press. 2012. - 434 p. 

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standards could lead to social isolation and rejection. Women who were deemed 
unattractive were often relegated to lower social statuses and had limited 
opportunities for marriage and employment. 
Men also faced pressure to conform to the ideal beauty standards. They were 
expected to be tall, strong, and physically fit, which could be challenging for those 
who did not have access to resources such as proper nutrition or exercise facilities. 
Men who did not meet these standards were often perceived as weak and effeminate, 
which could harm their social status and opportunities for success. 
The consequences of deviating from the ideal beauty standards were not limited 
to social discrimination. Individuals who did not meet these standards also faced 
health risks. For example, the use of corsets to achieve a slim waistline could lead 
to breathing difficulties and organ damage. The use of lead-based makeup was also 
prevalent during this time, which could cause lead poisoning and other health issues. 
Deviating from the ideal beauty standards in Victorian society had significant 
consequences. Those who failed to meet these standards faced social ostracism and 
discrimination, as well as health risks. Women and working-class individuals were