David Copperfield is the common name of the eighth novel, first published as a novel in 1850.

Like most of Charles Dickens' works, it originally appeared in serial form during the two preceding years.

Many elements of the novel follow events in his own life, and it is probably the most autobiographical of his novels.

In the preface to the 1867 edition, Dickens wrote, "e;like many fond parents, I have in my heart of hearts a favourite child. And his name is David Copperfield."e;