Dombey and Son (1846–1848) is a novel by Charles Dickens depicting Paul Dombey, a proud and wealthy London shipping merchant who dreams of his firm's future under his son Paul. Coldly indifferent to his daughter Florence, Dombey's world collapses when young Paul dies and his second marriage fails. Bankruptcy and despair follow, until Florence's unwavering love finally redeems him. Through tragedy and reconciliation, Dickens critiques Victorian capitalism, gender prejudice, and parental pride, while celebrating compassion and family bonds. The novel marks a turning point in Dickens's career with its unified plot and mature psychological portrayal of characters.
