Plot Twists
Where does the attempted robbery in Chapter 22 take place?
At the house in Chertsey.
Who plans the robbery with Sikes and Fagin?
Toby Crackit.
Which theme is emphasized by Oliver being forced into crime?
The corruption of innocence.
“He’s a deal too good for this life.” Who says it, and what does it mean?
Nancy, showing pity for Oliver’s innocence.
What does darkness often symbolize in these chapters?
Crime, danger, and moral corruption.
Who accompanies Sikes on the robbery?
Toby Crackit and Oliver Twist.
What role does Fagin play in the crime, even though he isn’t present?
He organizes it and manipulates others to carry it out.
What larger social issue does Dickens critique through Fagin’s gang?
Poverty and how it leads children into crime.
“The boy will be the ruin of us all.” Who says it, and why?
Fagin, realizing Oliver’s goodness threatens his control.
What might Oliver’s injury symbolize?
The painful cost of innocence in a corrupt world.
What happens to Oliver during the burglary?
He’s shot and left behind as the others escape.
Who insists that Oliver should go on the robbery?
Fagin and Sikes.
How is fate versus free will shown in these chapters?
Oliver is trapped by circumstance but begins to break free through chance and kindness.
“Get up, you young thief!” Who says this, and what’s ironic about it?
Sikes — ironic because Oliver doesn’t want to steal.
How does the countryside contrast with London?
It represents purity and refuge versus corruption and danger.
How does Sikes treat Oliver during the robbery?
Brutally — he threatens and forces Oliver to participate.
What does Nancy do that shows her loyalty to Oliver?
She tries to protect him and feels guilt about his situation.
How does Dickens use the burglary to comment on moral choices?
He shows that evil leads to self-destruction and suffering.
“The mud lay thick upon the stones, and a black mist hung over the streets.” What mood does this description create?
A grim, suspenseful atmosphere before the robbery.
Why does Dickens describe the weather in detail before the burglary?
It foreshadows the crime and mirrors the tension.
What does this burglary mark as a turning point for Oliver?
It leads to his separation from the criminal world and his rescue by kind people.
How does this section show the contrast between Nancy and Fagin?
Nancy shows compassion and conscience, while Fagin is purely manipulative and self-serving.
What moral contrast is set up between Sikes and Oliver during the burglary?
Violence and greed (Sikes) vs. innocence and fear (Oliver).
“There was a light shining upon a face that was as white as death.”What does this imagery reveal?
The shock and fear Oliver feels as he’s shot during the burglary.
What symbolic role does the house at Chertsey play?
It’s a symbol of middle-class virtue and safety — a sharp contrast to Fagin’s den.