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Questions and Answers
What is implied about Nancy's profession in the novel?
What is implied about Nancy's profession in the novel?
What does Nancy's behavior demonstrate?
What does Nancy's behavior demonstrate?
What is unique about Nancy's character compared to other 'good' characters in the novel?
What is unique about Nancy's character compared to other 'good' characters in the novel?
What is the theme explored through Nancy's character in the novel?
What is the theme explored through Nancy's character in the novel?
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What is hinted at in Nancy's speech about her past?
What is hinted at in Nancy's speech about her past?
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What is the significance of Nancy pointing to Oliver in her speech?
What is the significance of Nancy pointing to Oliver in her speech?
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Why are explicit references to sexuality avoided in the narrative?
Why are explicit references to sexuality avoided in the narrative?
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What is implied about Nancy's past in the novel?
What is implied about Nancy's past in the novel?
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How does Nancy's character differ from characters like Mr.Brownlow and Oliver?
How does Nancy's character differ from characters like Mr.Brownlow and Oliver?
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What is the purpose of Nancy's outburst against Sikes and Fagin?
What is the purpose of Nancy's outburst against Sikes and Fagin?
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Study Notes
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.
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Description
Explore the moral complexities of Nancy's character in Charles Dickens' novel Oliver Twist, and how she differs from other characters.
