Scarica Analisi di Oliver Twist di Charles Dickens e più Appunti in PDF di Inglese solo su Docsity! OLIVER TWIST – CHARLES DICKENS (1838) "Oliver Twist" is a novel written by Charles Dickens, published in 1838. It tells the story of an orphan boy named Oliver who endures various hardships and misadventures as he navigates the grim and poverty- stricken streets of 19th-century London. The novel depicts Oliver's encounters with various colorful characters, both kind-hearted and villainous, highlighting themes of social inequality, poverty, and the abuses suffered by orphaned children. "Oliver Twist" is considered one of Dickens' most popular and influential works, known for its vivid descriptions, memorable characters, and critique of the social conditions of the time. The author: Charles Dickens was born on February 7, 1812, in Portsmouth, England. He was the second of eight children born to John Dickens, a naval clerk, and Elizabeth Dickens. Dickens had a difficult childhood as his family struggled with financial problems and his father's debts. When he was just 12 years old, his father was arrested for debt and the young Dickens was sent to work at a blacking warehouse, pasting labels on bottles. This experience deeply impacted Dickens and influenced his later writings, as he drew inspiration from these childhood hardships. Thankfully, his father was soon able to pay off his debts and Dickens returned to school. However, this period of his life left a lasting mark on him. In the early 1830s, Dickens began his career as a journalist, writing under the pseudonym "Boz." His sketches and essays gained popularity, and he started publishing them in various newspapers and magazines. In 1836, he published his first novel, "The Pickwick Papers," which achieved great success and established him as a prominent writer. Over the next few decades, Dickens wrote numerous novels, many of which became classics of English literature. Some of his most famous works include "Oliver Twist," "David Copperfield," "Great Expectations," and "A Tale of Two Cities." Dickens had a unique writing style that combined humor, social criticism, and vivid character descriptions. Apart from his writing, Dickens also undertook various philanthropic activities throughout his life. He campaigned for better labor conditions, education reform, and the abolition of slavery. He often used his writings as a platform to shed light on societal issues, and his works played a significant role in drawing attention to the plight of the poor and disadvantaged. Dickens's personal life was marked by both success and turmoil. He married Catherine Hogarth in 1836, and they had ten children together. However, their marriage encountered difficulties and they eventually separated in 1858. This separation deeply affected Dickens, and their troubled relationship also had an impact on his later works. Charles Dickens passed away on June 9, 1870, at the age of 58. His death was mourned by the public, as he had become one of the most beloved and celebrated writers of his time. Dickens's contributions to literature and his influential social consciousness continue to make him an enduring figure in English literature. Plot: The novel "Oliver Twist" follows the story of a young orphan boy named Oliver, who is born in a workhouse and raised in poverty. From an early age, Oliver is determined and resourceful, but he is also small and weak, which makes him a target for bullying. When Oliver turns ten, he is sent to a farm to work as an apprentice. However, he is mistreated by his cruel master and runs away, ending up in London. There, he falls in with a group of pickpockets, led by a man named Fagin. At first, Oliver is hesitant to join the group, but he is soon drawn into their world. Fagin takes Oliver under his wing, teaching him the art of pickpocketing and showing him the ropes of the criminal underworld. Oliver soon becomes a respected member of the gang, but his conscience begins to trouble him. He begins to question the morality of their actions and longs for a better life. Meanwhile, the authorities are closing in on Fagin's gang. A young policeman named Nancy becomes a key witness in the case, and she reveals that Fagin has been using a young girl named Rose Maylie to launder their stolen goods. Rose is the daughter of a wealthy businessman, and when she learns of Fagin's crimes, she is horrified. She decides to help Oliver escape from Fagin's grasp and sets him up in a new life. After these dramatic events, Oliver finds a loving home with Mr. Brownlow, who adopts him as his own son. He is given a proper education, surrounded by caring individuals who genuinely have his best interests at heart. The story concludes with Oliver enjoying his new life of love, stability, and comfort. Throughout the novel, Dickens explores themes of poverty, social inequality, and the corrupting influence of crime. He also touches on the importance of education, family, and moral values. The novel is a powerful indictment of the injustices of Victorian society and a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit. Characters: The main characters in Charles Dickens' novel "Oliver Twist" include: 1. Oliver Twist - The orphan protagonist and title character. 2. Fagin - The leader of a gang of pickpockets, who takes Oliver under his wing. 3. The Artful Dodger - A skilled child pickpocket and one of Fagin's gang. 4. Bill Sikes - A brutal criminal and member of Fagin's gang. 5. Nancy - A prostitute and friend of Oliver, who ultimately helps him.