Montreal Dickens Fellowship Study Questions: “Oliver Twist”
Westmount Public Library
April 1, 2014 2:30-4:30
Chapters 41-48 (Penguin Edition)
- Dickens is a master of “Show Don’t Tell”; letting his characters’ actions describe their personalities. What do we learn about Noah Claypole from his behavior towards Charlotte? Why does she put up with him?
- Why is Barney’s speech so distorted? Is it meant to be an accent? Ridicule? Fagin does not speak this badly. Is there a hierarchy among Jewish thieves?
- Do you feel for the Dodger’s fate? Do you admire the loyalty of Charley and Fagin for their desire to see what happens to him? Are they only interested in seeing if he “squeals” or in seeing that he goes out with distinction?
- Comment on Fagin’s speech about looking out for #1. Given that this is the rule of the jungle and may be the only way to survive, is he justified?
- Discuss Fagin’s motives in having Nancy watched. Are they clear?
- The London Bridge meeting between Nancy, Rose and Mr. Brownlow is very melodramatic. Discuss the literary devices (dark and violent imagery, exaggerated emotions, mystery, pathos) that Dickens uses to create this effect.
- How does Nancy’s premonition of death add to the suspense? What do you make of her religiosity at her death?
- Why did Sikes work so hard to help with the fire?
- Do you think the much awaited revelation about Oliver’s birth and Monks and Mr. Brownlow’s connection is clear and well explained? Why? Why Not?
- What does Sikes treatment of his dog tell us about his character? Do you think that Sikes has a conscience, given his guilt over killing Nancy and his being haunted by her?
- Dickens describes the seamy and violent side of society and poverty so very well. Do you think the mob’s extreme reaction to the brutal murder of a prostitute realistic or do you think this might have been a common occurrence? Was this deliberately thought provoking on Dickens’ part?