Mangalore : A two-day national seminar on ‘Charles Dickens and Victorian England: What the Dickens?’ organised by the Department of English, St Aloysius College (Autonomous), Mangalore,was inaugurated  at Eric Mathais Hall  of St Aloysius College on December 14, Friday.

Dr Rajendra Chenni, Professor of English at Kuvempu University, who delivered the key note address, said Charles Dickens was a great writer who effectively portrayed the sufferings of mankind during his times. He said  the unique historical and political factors of the times helped in shaping writings of Dickens which in turn shaped the society of those times.

Fr Swebert D’Silva, Principal of St Aloysius College, presided over the function. In his address, he exhorted the students to enhance their knowledge and also have a good knowledge of English which was a must in recent times.

 Organising secretary of the seminar Prof Alwyn D’Sa, Head of English Department Prof Ratan Tilak Mohunta, Vice Principal Dr Ronald Pinto, Prof Judith Pinto, Dr A Lourduswamy,  and others were present.