10 Questions
What does Oliver's domestic relationship with Fagin and his gang illustrate in the novel?
The significance of environment in determining one's character
Why do people accept whichever community accepts them, according to Dickens?
Due to the desire for companionship and acceptance
How does Oliver's behavior change when he begins to find humor and joy in the companionship of the thieves?
He becomes more vulnerable to Fagin's corruption
What is implied about the Poor Laws in the novel?
They are oppressive and contribute to the perpetuation of poverty
What characteristic does the Artful Dodger possess, aside from being a thief?
High intelligence
How does Oliver's speech and demeanor compare to that of the rest of Fagin's boys?
It is more sophisticated and refined
How does Oliver react when the Dodger and Charley pick Brownlow's pocket?
With shock and horror
What is unclear about Oliver's moral development?
Where he acquired his moral fastidiousness
What is notable about the way the Dodger and Charley speak?
They use slang expressions like 'scragged' and 'rum dog'
What is the difference between how Oliver speaks and how the Dodger and Charley speak?
Oliver speaks in proper English, while the Dodger and Charley speak in slang
Study Notes
Environment vs. Biological Nature
- The novel argues that the environment in which one is raised has a greater impact on one's character than biological nature.
- The need for companionship drives people to accept whichever community accepts them, leading to the adoption of that community's values.
Oliver's Relationship with Fagin's Gang
- Oliver finds humor and joy in the companionship of the thieves, making it easy for Fagin to corrupt him.
- The Artful Dodger and Charley Bates are likeable characters, despite their crimes, with the Dodger being highly intelligent and Charley prone to bursts of laughter.
- The characters' likability suggests that they could have thrived in legitimate society if accepted.
Oliver's Moral Character
- Oliver's sophisticated speech and demeanor suggest that he appreciates goodness and morality despite being born into squalid conditions.
- He reacts with shock and horror at the idea of stealing, displaying moral fastidiousness.
- The origin of Oliver's moral goodness is unclear, as it could not have been learned in the workhouse.
Language and Speech Patterns
- The Dodger and Charley speak in street slang, using expressions like "scragged," "rum dog," "peaching," and "fogles and tickers."
- Oliver does not understand these expressions and speaks in proper King's English, suggesting his refined speech patterns may be a symptom of his innate moral goodness.
Explore how Charles Dickens' Oliver Twist highlights the impact of environmental factors on a person's character, particularly in the context of Oliver's relationship with Fagin and his gang.
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