Great Expectations Vs. Oliver Twist
During his lifetime, Charles Dickens is known to have written several books.
Although each book is different, they also share many similarities. Two of his
books, Great Expectations and Oliver Twist, are representatives of the many
kinds of differences and similarities found within his work.
Perhaps the reason why these two novels share some of the same qualities is
because they both reflect painful experiences which occurred in Dickens' past.
During his childhood, Charles Dickens suffered much abuse from his parents.1
This abuse is often expressed in his novels. Pip, in Great Expectations, talked
often about the abuse he received at the hands of his sister, Mrs. Joe Gargery.
On one ...
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at dinner one night. After making this simple request, "the
master (at the orphanage) aimed a blow at Oliver's head with the ladle; pinioned
him in his arms; and shrieked aloud for the beadle."3
The whole beginning of Oliver Twist's story was created from memories which
related to Charles Dickens' childhood in a blacking factory ( which was
overshadowed by the Marshalsea Prison ).4 While working in the blacking factory,
Dickens suffered tremendous humiliation. This humiliation is greatly expressed
through Oliver's adventures at the orphanage before he is sent away.
Throughout his lifetime, Dickens appeared to have acquired a fondness for "the
bleak, the sordid, and the austere."5 Most of Oliver Twist, for example, takes
place in London's lowest slums.6 The city is described as a maze which involves
a "mystery of darkness, anonymity, and peril."7 Many of the settings, such as
the pickpocket's hideout, the surrounding streets, and the bars, are also
described as dark, gloomy, and ...
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alone, that preserves him from disaster and death."13
Unfortunately, many critics have found it hard to believe that a boy such as
Oliver Twist could remain so innocent, pure, and well spoken given the long
period of time in which he was surrounded by evil and injustices.14
Pip, on the other hand, is a dreamer. His imagination is always helping him to
create situations to cover up for his hard times. For example, when questioned
about his first visit to Miss Havisham's house, he made up along elaborate story
to make up for the terrible time he had in reality. Instead of telling how he
played cards all day while being ridiculed and criticized by Estella and Miss
Havisham, he claimed ...
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"Great Expectations Vs. Oliver Twist." Essayworld.com. October 11, 2008. Accessed April 18, 2024. http://www.essayworld.com/essays/Great-Expectations-Vs-Oliver-Twist/91287.
"Great Expectations Vs. Oliver Twist." Essayworld.com. October 11, 2008. Accessed April 18, 2024. http://www.essayworld.com/essays/Great-Expectations-Vs-Oliver-Twist/91287.
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