Who Wilkins Micawber is
Wilkins Micawber is a grand talker whose household gives David a lodging during his unhappy working life in London. David washes and labels bottles in a warehouse, while the Micawber family struggles with debts and a chaotic home.
Micawber brings comedy to the story, but the trouble behind his hopeful talk is real. His debts lead to his arrest and imprisonment, and David visits him in the King's Bench prison.
What Wilkins Micawber wants
Micawber is always sure that his circumstances will improve, even when his finances give little reason for confidence. He advises David to keep spending below income, yet he does not follow that advice himself.
The gap between his sensible words and foolish actions makes him both funny and vulnerable. His hopefulness does not remove the danger that money troubles bring to him and his family.
Wilkins Micawber and the others in the story
Micawber shows David kindness at a time when the boy feels ashamed and alone. Through him, David learns that generosity and foolishness can exist together in the same person.
His wife, Emma, repeatedly declares her loyalty to him despite the family's troubles. Their marriage offers a picture of affection that holds firm under the pressure of debt.
Questions
Who is Wilkins Micawber in David Copperfield?
Wilkins Micawber is the hopeful, debt troubled man with whose family David lodges while working in London.
Is Wilkins Micawber kind to David?
Yes, Micawber treats David kindly during the boy's lonely warehouse years.
What does Wilkins Micawber represent?
He shows how kindness, financial foolishness and persistent hope can live together. His troubles also reflect the money worries of Dickens's own father.