The most famous fictional trial in English literatureBardell v. Pickwick is an episode that occurs in chapter 33 of The Pickwick Papers (1836-1837) by Charles Dickens [1812-1870]. Here the hero becomes the defendant in a breach of promise of marriage suit. Mr. Justice Gaselee and Serjeants Snubbin and Buzfuz are among the characters introduced here. One of the most popular episodes in this widely-loved novel, it was often dramatized or read aloud as a parlor entertainment. Those interested in law will find the text of this trial highly enjoyable, and the notes and commentaries by Percy Fitzgerald interesting and informative.