Charles Dickens is undoubtedly one of the greatest literary minds in history, with novels such as A Christmas Carol, Oliver Twist, and David Copperfield. One of his sons, Charles Dickens Jr., also took up writing and, in that role, expressed opinions about the sport of boxing.
Charles Dickens, Jr. (photo, Wikipedia)
In 1879, Dickens Jr. published a dictionary, and in the dictionary, he provided some insights into what boxing was during the Victorian era. Back then, “professional pugilism” (the term used for boxing at the time), was stirring up controversy and rising in the ranks as a popular sport.
Dickens Jr. mentions two of the most famous London boxing clubs at the time, the Clapton Boxing Club and the London Boxing Club, and how their popularity was a significant part of boxing. Dickens Jr. also observed how boxing was popular for those who competed in rowing during the off-season and how a simple five shillings could get you a membership at the Clapton Boxing Club.
One of the biggest things we can learn from Dickens Jr. is summed up in a quote from his article, “The notable art of self-defense is not, however, altogether neglected, but finds its place amongst the athletic sports.”
