Answer:
To enhance the setting.
Explanation:
Charles Dickens' novel "Hard Times" is a kind of critique of the English society of Victorian England. it also satirizes the economic, political as well as societal condition of the place.
With the characterization of his protagonists with specific names, Dickens seen to base their names from their characters' lives and situation. The portrayal of the characters through their names gave an image of how they will be like. They are also the means through which the author critiques the society in which they live.
For instance, one of the most influential and dominating character is that of Mr. Gradgrind who is the typical stoic man who thinks only about profits and doesn't care hurting others as long as he will gain anything. He 'grinds' everyone to work harder while not caring to improve their condition or even listen to their problems. Another example can be said of Stephen Blackpool who works in a mill. Unfortunate in all circumstances, he fell into a mine shaft and got injured, only to succumb to his injuries.
Thus, the only way the characters are not named according to their characters is to enhance the setting.
