Abstract

This paper discusses Charles Dickens’ expert weaving of realism into his very entertaining 1838 novel, Oliver Twist. The novel takes the reader through a sometimes-unbelievable obstacle course for the young Oliver, but the true stories of real children in Victorian London are being told as well.

There are several reasons for the state these children existed in, including England’s growing industrialization, the undervaluing of children in general, and The New Poor Law Amendment Act of 1834. This paper looks into Dickens’ own childhood as well, in hopes of getting a glimpse into what may have motivated him to step up for the children as he did.

Year Manuscript Completed

Fall 2021

Senior Project Advisor

Dr. Danielle Nielsen

Degree Awarded

Bachelor of Integrated Studies Degree

Field of Study

Arts & Humanities

Document Type

Thesis

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