In addition to well-known works such as "Oliver Twist," the great English novelist Charles Dickens also wrote a "History of England for Young and Old." It was published between 1851 and 1853 initially as a series in the weekly magazine "Household Words," which he edited, before being released as a book due to its great success. Dickens is at the height of his craft here: he playfully brings the respective rulers and eras to life through vivid language and unusual imagery. He does not hold back on moral judgments either: he refers to John Lackland as a "base coward and despicable villain," while he calls Henry VIII a "stain on the history of England." The "History of England for Young and Old" enjoyed great popularity and continued to be well-received well into the 20th century.