Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist is a gripping tale of poverty, crime, and redemption, chronicling the life of Oliver Twist, an orphan born in a workhouse in early 19th-century England. The story begins with Oliver’s mother dying shortly after his birth, leaving him to the care of the harsh and neglectful workhouse system. As a young boy, Oliver is underfed, overworked, and mistreated. His famous plea for more food—“Please, sir, I want some more”—earns him punishment and leads to his being apprenticed to Mr. Sowerberry, an undertaker.
Oliver’s life at the Sowerberry household is equally grim, marked by abuse and humiliation. After a fight with another apprentice, Oliver runs away to London, where he encounters the Artful Dodger, a street-smart boy who introduces him to a gang of pickpockets led by the cunning and sinister Fagin. Fagin trains young boys to steal for him, and Oliver, unaware of the gang’s criminal activities, is drawn into their world.
During one of the gang’s outings, Oliver is accused of stealing a handkerchief from Mr. Brownlow, a kind and wealthy gentleman. Although innocent, Oliver is arrested but later exonerated when a witness proves his innocence. Mr. Brownlow takes pity on Oliver and offers him a home, introducing him to a life of kindness and comfort for the first time. However, Fagin and his accomplices, including the brutal Bill Sikes and his compassionate partner Nancy, conspire to retrieve Oliver, fearing he might expose their crimes.
Nancy, despite her association with the gang, develops a protective affection for Oliver. She reluctantly helps Fagin and Sikes kidnap him, returning him to the gang. Oliver is forced to participate in a burglary at a countryside house, but the plan goes awry when Oliver is wounded. The homeowners, Mrs. Maylie and her adopted niece Rose take Oliver in and care for him. They grow fond of him and begin to uncover the mystery of his parentage.
As the story unfolds, it is revealed that Oliver is the illegitimate son of Edwin Leeford and Agnes Fleming. Leeford’s will, which would have left Oliver a substantial inheritance, was concealed by his malevolent half-brother, Monks, who colluded with Fagin to destroy Oliver’s chances of claiming his rightful place in society. Monks’ schemes include ensuring Oliver’s downfall and perpetuating his life of crime.
Nancy, moved by her guilt and love for Oliver, secretly informs Rose Maylie of Monks’ plot. Despite her dangerous position, Nancy refuses to abandon her loyalty to Sikes and the gang. Tragically, her betrayal is discovered, and Sikes, in a fit of rage, murders her. Sikes’ guilt and paranoia lead to his downfall when he accidentally hangs himself while trying to escape a mob.
With the help of Mr. Brownlow and other allies, Monks is confronted and coerced into revealing the truth about Oliver’s heritage. Monks confesses his attempts to ruin Oliver and relinquishes his claim to the inheritance. Oliver’s rightful place in society is restored, and he is adopted by Mr. Brownlow, finally finding the love and stability he has longed for.
The novel concludes with justice served: Fagin is arrested and executed, Monks squanders his remaining wealth and dies in misery, and Oliver begins a new life surrounded by people who care for him. Rose Maylie marries Harry, her longtime suitor, and the characters who supported Oliver find their happiness and peace.
Oliver Twist is a powerful social critique and a compelling tale of resilience and hope. Through Oliver’s journey from the harsh workhouses to the criminal underworld and finally to a loving home, Dickens exposes the injustices of Victorian England, particularly the exploitation of the poor and vulnerable. The novel’s vivid characters—ranging from the sinister Fagin and ruthless Bill Sikes to the compassionate Nancy and steadfast Mr. Brownlow—bring depth and emotional resonance to the story. Dickens masterfully balances suspense, humor, and moral commentary, making Oliver Twist a timeless exploration of humanity’s capacity for both cruelty and kindness.