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Oliver Twist: Characterization of Fagin

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Questions and Answers

What is one of the uncomfortable aspects of Oliver Twist from today's perspective?

The lack of female characters

Dickens's use of Christian imagery

The poverty depicted in the novel

Dickens's characterization of Fagin through Jewish stereotypes (correct)

How does Dickens describe Fagin's face?

As kind and gentle

As old and wise

As young and handsome

As villainous-looking and repulsive (correct)

Why does Fagin's wealth seem ill-gotten?

Because he obtained it by having others do the thieving for him (correct)

Because he earned it through hard work

Because he stole it from others

Because he inherited it from his family

How does Dickens refer to Fagin in the narration?

As 'the Jew' or 'the old Jew' Signup and view all the answers

Why did Dickens defend his portrayal of Fagin?

Because he believed it reflected the reality of London thieving rings at the time Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred about Dickens's portrayal of Fagin?

It involves a certain degree of bigotry Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Characterization of Fagin in Oliver Twist

Fagin is characterized by Dickens through Jewish stereotypes, making it an uncomfortable aspect of the novel.
Dickens describes Fagin as a "very old shrivelled Jew" with a "villainous-looking and repulsive face".
The characterization of Fagin taps into the Victorian stereotype of Jews as avaricious gold worshippers, evident in the description of his eyes "glistening" as he takes out a "magnificent gold watch, sparkling with jewels".
Fagin's wealth is portrayed as ill-gotten, obtained through having others do the thieving for him, with some even being hanged for his crimes.
The narrator's constant reference to Fagin as "the Jew" or "the old Jew" implies that he represents all Jews.
Dickens defended his portrayal of Fagin, citing that many leaders of London thieving rings at the time were Jewish.
Despite this defense, Dickens's portrayal of Fagin is still seen as involving a degree of bigotry.

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Description

Examining the characterization of Fagin in Oliver Twist, including Dickens's use of Jewish stereotypes. Analyze the depiction of Fagin's physical appearance and behavior in the context of Victorian attitudes towards Jews.