Oliver Twist is a novel by Charles Dickens that tells the story of a young orphan named Oliver who grows up in a workhouse in Victorian England. From a young age, Oliver experiences harsh treatment and poverty, leading him to flee in search of a better life. His journey takes him to London, where he encounters a variety of characters, both good and bad, that shape his understanding of society.
In London, Oliver meets a group of juvenile delinquents led by the cunning Fagin, who trains young boys to pickpocket. Despite Fagin's influence, Oliver's innate goodness shines through, and he struggles to resist the criminal life around him. He is eventually befriended by the kind-hearted artful Dodger, yet Oliver longs for a true home and loving family.
The novel explores themes of poverty, social injustice, and the resilience of the human spirit. Ultimately, Oliver's journey reflects the harsh realities faced by the impoverished while highlighting the importance of compassion and morality amidst adversity. Dickens masterfully presents a critique of the social systems of his time, making Oliver Twist a timeless and impactful work.