5 Tips From Oliver Twist: Lessons From Charles Dickens’ Classic Novel

Oliver Twist, written by Charles Dickens, tells the story of a young orphan named Oliver Twist who endures a series of hardships and misfortunes in nineteenth-century London. The novel begins with Oliver’s birth in a workhouse where his mother dies shortly afterward. Oliver eventually finds himself living in a juvenile workhouse, where the children are subjected to harsh conditions and mistreatment.

As Oliver grows older, he is sold by the workhouse authorities to an undertaker named Mr. Sowerberry. However, Oliver’s life does not improve under his new master, as he faces further cruelty and abuse. After a series of incidents, Oliver decides to leave the undertaker’s house and sets out for London.

In London, Oliver meets a boy named Jack Dawkins, also known as the Artful Dodger, who introduces him to a group of young pickpockets led by the elderly criminal Fagin. Oliver, unaware of their criminal activities, becomes a member of their gang and is trained in pickpocketing.

During a theft gone wrong, Oliver is wrongly accused of stealing and narrowly avoids being arrested. He is taken in by Mr. Brownlow, a kind and wealthy man, who believes in Oliver’s innocence and provides him with a safe and caring environment. However, Fagin and the others are determined to bring Oliver back to their criminal lifestyle.

As the story progresses, Oliver’s true identity and background are brought to light, revealing connections to other characters in the novel. The plot delves into themes of poverty, social injustice, and moral redemption, exploring the stark contrast between the corrupt, crime-ridden streets of London and the genuine kindness and compassion shown by a few individuals.

Through various twists and turns, Oliver finds himself entangled in a series of dangerous situations and encounters with both benevolent and malevolent characters. Ultimately, the novel concludes with Oliver’s true heritage revealed, and he is able to find a secure and happy life with those who truly care for him.

The target readers of Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens are primarily adults, specifically those interested in Victorian literature, classic novels, and social commentary.

1. Literature enthusiasts: Readers who enjoy classic literature and appreciate the works of renowned writers like Charles Dickens. They may have read other novels by Dickens and are interested in exploring his diverse range of storytelling.

2. Victorian history and culture enthusiasts: Readers with an interest in the Victorian era, its social structure, and the issues faced by individuals during that time. They may seek to gain insights into the lives of the poor and marginalized through Dickens’ vivid descriptions.

3. Social justice advocates: Readers who prioritize social justice and are interested in narratives that shed light on inequality, poverty, and the struggles of the underprivileged. Oliver Twist exposes the harsh realities of child labor, crime, and the cruelty of the workhouse system.

4. English literature students: High school or college students studying English literature might read Oliver Twist as part of their syllabus. The novel provides valuable context for understanding the literary techniques and social themes prominent in Dickens’ works.

5. Historical fiction readers: Individuals who enjoy reading historical fiction, particularly set in the Victorian era. Oliver Twist serves as a window into the daily lives and challenges faced by people of different social classes in 19th-century London.

Overall, Oliver Twist appeals to readers interested in Victorian literature, social issues, historical context, and the enduring themes of compassion, redemption, and resilience.

1. The power of kindness: Throughout Oliver Twist, Dickens emphasizes the importance of showing kindness to others, even in the face of adversity. We can use this tip by actively seeking opportunities to be kind to people around us, whether it be by offering a helping hand, offering a friendly word, or showing empathy towards those in difficult situations.

2. The danger of judging based on appearances: Oliver Twist encounters numerous characters who are judged purely based on their appearances, leading to misunderstandings and unfair treatment. A lesson learned from this is to never judge someone solely by their outward appearance but instead take the time to understand them on a deeper level.

3. The significance of education: Oliver’s lack of education puts him at a significant disadvantage in society, making it easier for others to exploit him. This highlights the importance of education, as it provides individuals with knowledge, critical thinking skills, and better opportunities. We can use this tip by valuing education in our own lives and supporting educational initiatives in our communities.

4. The importance of social reform: Dickens confronts social issues and injustices prevalent in his time, such as poverty, child labor, and mistreatment of the lower class. We can learn from this by recognizing and advocating for social reforms in our own societies, working towards creating a more equitable and just system for all individuals.

5. The value of perseverance: Oliver’s story revolves around his unwavering determination to find happiness and escape the hardships he faces. This teaches us the value of perseverance and resilience in our own lives. We can employ this tip by setting goals, staying focused, and not giving up when faced with challenges, knowing that better days lie ahead.

1. Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Brontë – This classic novel explores similar themes of poverty, social class, and the struggle for individual identity. Like Oliver Twist, Jane Eyre is an orphan faced with numerous hurdles and hardships, making it a compelling read.

2. “Les Misérables” by Victor Hugo – This epic masterpiece delves into themes of poverty, crime, social injustice, and redemption. Set in 19th-century France, it follows the story of Jean Valjean, a former convict, as he navigates through a world of poverty-stricken individuals and unruly revolutionaries. Similar to Oliver Twist, it exposes the darker sides of society and portrays the fight for a better life.

3. “Great Expectations” by Charles Dickens – Written by the same author, this novel shares thematic similarities with Oliver Twist. It explores the struggles of Pip, an orphan brought up in the lower class, as he aspires for a better life and becomes entangled in a web of deceit and manipulation. It delves into social class, morality, and the pursuit of identity, making it a worthy read for fans of Oliver Twist.

4. “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” by Mark Twain – Although set in a different time and place, this novel portrays the escapades of young Huck Finn and his encounters with poverty, hypocrisy, and racial tensions in 19th-century America. It delves into themes of social injustice and the moral growth of the protagonist, much like Oliver Twist, making it a thought-provoking choice for readers.

5. “The Jungle” by Upton Sinclair – This influential novel sheds light on the harsh reality faced by immigrants in early 20th-century America. It explores themes of poverty, exploitation, and corruption in the meatpacking industry, exposing the underbelly of society. While not a direct match to the storyline of Oliver Twist, it captures the spirit of social criticism and acts as a powerful commentary on the plight of the poor.

6. A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens – Another work by Dickens, this novella may not focus on poverty and orphans like Oliver Twist, but it effectively highlights themes of redemption and social inequality. It follows the transformative journey of Ebenezer Scrooge, who is visited by three ghosts, forcing him to confront his selfishness and the consequences it brings. A Christmas Carol offers valuable insights into societal issues and the possibility of change.

These recommended books explore various themes present in Oliver Twist, such as poverty, social inequality, the struggle for identity, and the resilience of individuals in the face of adversity. They provide captivating narratives and thought-provoking discussions on important social issues.