Oliver Twist Character Analysis

Nancy's Character in Oliver Twist

• Nancy's behavior in Oliver Twist shows moral extremes, unlike other main characters who are either completely good or evil.
• Dickens's description of Nancy's manner implies that she is a prostitute, a profession that would have been viewed unfavorably by Victorian readers.
• Nancy's role in the scheme to bring Oliver back to Fagin's fold contrasts with her passionate outburst against Sikes and Fagin for mistreating Oliver, demonstrating her strong sense of morality.
• Nancy's character explores the theme of redemption from a bad environment, as she knows degradation well but is still a good person.
• Some critics interpret Nancy's speech as hinting that the boys might be involved in prostitution, due to her statement about being in the "same trade" as Oliver.
• Nancy's speech about her past is intentionally vague, due to the Victorian era's avoidance of explicit references to sexuality.
• Nancy's identity as a prostitute is also implied rather than directly stated, due to the same social norms.

Explore the moral complexities of Nancy's character in Charles Dickens' novel Oliver Twist, and how she differs from other characters.