Why are Dickens' characters so fascinating? In spite of the exaggeration in the portrayal why do they appear realistic? Here you will learn: Dickens' position in the tradition of the novel. Contrast and comparison with other novelists. Characters from different social/ regional backgrounds, each having his/her typical expressions. Speech variation in inter-personal relationship, power, topic and situation. Linguistic prejudices, use of jargons, communication skills, misunderstandings, among other devices, enriching speech depiction in Dickens' novels. Dickens' stylistic innovations and specialities co-related with techniques, insights of modern linguistics.