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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more gruel 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 ...
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it would
seem from Heaven 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 ...
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"Great Expectations Vs. Oliver Twist." Essayworld.com. May 20, 2004. Accessed April 16, 2024. http://www.essayworld.com/essays/Great-Expectations-Vs-Oliver-Twist/8124.
"Great Expectations Vs. Oliver Twist." Essayworld.com. May 20, 2004. Accessed April 16, 2024. http://www.essayworld.com/essays/Great-Expectations-Vs-Oliver-Twist/8124.
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