Summary Because Fagin and Sikes trust Nancy, she is well informed regarding their crimes. In spite of her grudge against Fagin, she would not willingly be the instrument of his undoing. In her conversation with Rose, Nancy said nothing that could injure Sikes. Still, she is worried and distracted by […]
Read more Summary and Analysis Chapters 44-46Summary and Analysis Chapters 42-43
Summary On the night that Nancy has her secret meeting with Rose, a familiar couple are approaching London from the north. The man, a gangling sort of creature, is carrying a small package, while the sturdy young woman behind him trudges along under a heavy bundle. They are Noah Claypole […]
Read more Summary and Analysis Chapters 42-43Summary and Analysis Chapters 39-41
Summary In the evening after Monks had his meeting with the Bumbles, Sikes wakes up from a nap in his usual vicious temper. He is living in slum-like rooms near his former home. He is marked by the ravages of illness compounded with extreme poverty. Nancy is present, and she […]
Read more Summary and Analysis Chapters 39-41Summary and Analysis Chapters 37-38
Summary Mr. Bumble sits gloomily in the workhouse parlor. He has married Mrs. Corney and succeeded to the post of master, but in spite of his elevation, he sorely misses his cocked hat with its connotations of the authority that belongs to the minor parish official known as the beadle. […]
Read more Summary and Analysis Chapters 37-38Summary and Analysis Chapters 33-36
Summary One warm evening, after Oliver and the ladies have returned from their customary stroll, Rose is overcome by a fit of uncontrollable weeping. She makes a courageous effort to compose herself but is soon forced to admit: “I fear I am ill, aunt.” Yet as the girl goes to […]
Read more Summary and Analysis Chapters 33-36Summary and Analysis Chapter 32
Summary Oliver’s broken arm is healing as he recovers from the illness brought on by his terrible experience. He is particularly determined to convince Rose Maylie of his gratitude and ardent desire to demonstrate his sincerity by deeds. Rose promises that he will have ample opportunity, for her aunt intends […]
Read more Summary and Analysis Chapter 32Summary and Analysis Chapters 28-31
Summary Dickens goes back to pick up the chronicle of Oliver’s adversities. Toby Crackit is the first to advocate abandoning the boy. As the pursuers gain, Sikes drops his burden and disappears over a hedge. Simultaneously, the members of the manhunt lose their zest for the chase and turn back. […]
Read more Summary and Analysis Chapters 28-31Summary and Analysis Chapter 27
Summary Returning to Mr. Bumble, we find him still waiting in Mrs. Corney’s room. To occupy the time, he repeats his survey of the widow’s property. Since no one is approaching, Bumble extends his investigation to a chest of drawers. Among the good quality contents, there is a locked box […]
Read more Summary and Analysis Chapter 27Summary and Analysis Chapters 25-26
Summary Fagin sits brooding while Dawkins, Bates, and Chitling play cards. By carefully studying Chitling’s hand, the Dodger is able to win consistently, putting an end to the game. The others banter Chitling about being in love with Betsy. Tom grants that he served a jail sentence to protect the […]
Read more Summary and Analysis Chapters 25-26Summary and Analysis Chapters 23-24
Summary “Bleak, dark, and piercing cold,” it is a night “for the homeless, starving wretch to lay him down and die.” But within the workhouse where Oliver was born, Mrs. Corney, the matron, is preparing to enjoy the good cheer of her tea. The ritual is interrupted by the arrival […]
Read more Summary and Analysis Chapters 23-24