Orphans in Dickensian Literature: A Comparative Examination of Oliver Twist, Nicholas Nickleby, and Esther Summerson

Abstract

The fundamental goal of this dissertation is to carefully analyse and examine the complicated and diverse relationships between three profoundly essential characters in Charles Dickens's famous works. These characters, Esther Summerson from the work of art "Bleak House," Nicholas Nickleby from the eponymous novel "Nicholas Nickleby," and Oliver Twist from the classic novel "Oliver Twist," all share the profound and tragic reality of being orphaned. The core of this research is the careful evaluation and breakdown of their unique odysseys, complicated connections, and the profound and powerful themes that drive their narratives. These themes, which include identity discovery, the unbreakable spirit of resilience, and the constant quest for a sense of belonging and love, serve as the framework for this exploratory research. This research seeks to reveal the complex and multifaceted portrayal of orphanhood within Dickens's vast collection of literary works, while also shining its profound effect on the lives of these captivating characters by delving deep into the intricacies of their respective journeys. This study takes a diverse approach to gain a thorough knowledge of the various processes at work. It digs into the characters' backstories, examining their origins, familial relationships, and the events that led to their orphanhood. Furthermore, this research carefully analyses the tremendous and transforming character growth that these individuals go through throughout their stories. This study aims to highlight the enormous impact of orphanhood on their personal growth and development by exposing the transforming personality of their experiences. This dissertation also delves into the multiple interactions and exchanges that these individuals have. Their paths frequently cross, demonstrating Dickens's literary universe's complicated web of links and connections. The study attempts to uncover the significant ways in which orphanhood affects and impacts individual narratives, as well as the larger implications and consequences of these connections, by evaluating these interactions.