The Dark and Threatening Atmosphere in Oliver Twist - Chapter 21 & 22

TLDRAs day breaks, Bill Sikes and Oliver make their way through the dark and foggy neighborhoods of London. They pass through the chaotic Smithfield market before reaching a solitary house where they meet Toby Crackit. After some rest, they prepare for a robbery mission in the dense foggy night. Oliver pleads to be released, but the mission proceeds. Oliver is shot during an encounter inside the house.

Key insights

🌆The stark contrast between the dark and threatening atmosphere in the lower-class neighborhoods of London and the sun-drenched better suburbs highlights the stark divide between different social classes.

🔫The characters' involvement in burglary and robbery reflects the prevalence of criminal activities in the early 1800s and portrays the dark side of society.

🏴‍☠️The secret house where Bill Sikes and Oliver meet Toby Crackit underscores the hidden world of criminals and their covert operations.

🌫️The dense fog and lack of moonlight intensify the suspense and danger of the nighttime mission, adding to the eerie and treacherous atmosphere.

🔫💔Oliver's innocence and reluctance to participate in the robbery highlight the conflict between his pure nature and the corrupt world he is forced into.

Q&A

What is the significance of the dark and foggy atmosphere in Oliver Twist?

The dark and foggy atmosphere in Oliver Twist represents the lower-class neighborhoods of London and highlights the stark contrast between different social classes.

What is the role of Bill Sikes and Toby Crackit in the story?

Bill Sikes and Toby Crackit are involved in burglary and robbery, reflecting the prevalence of criminal activities in the early 1800s.

Why does Oliver beg to be released during the robbery?

Oliver's innocence and reluctance to participate in the robbery lead him to plead to be released from the dangerous mission.

What is the significance of the dense fog and lack of moonlight in the nighttime mission?

The dense fog and lack of moonlight intensify the suspense and danger of the nighttime mission, contributing to the eerie and treacherous atmosphere.

What does Oliver's shooting reveal about the characters and the story?

Oliver's shooting demonstrates the violence and risks associated with the criminal world, as well as the conflict between his pure nature and the corrupt society he is forced into.

Timestamped Summary

00:01[Music]

00:09Chapter 21 begins with Bill Sikes and Oliver walking through the dark and foggy neighborhoods of London.

01:12In Chapter 22, Bill Sikes and Oliver meet Toby Crackit and prepare for a robbery mission.

01:31The men lift Oliver over a wall and he realizes their intentions.

02:12Oliver decides to run upstairs and alert the inhabitants of the house they are targeting.

02:21Bill shouts for Oliver to come back, but two men appear at the top of the stairs.

02:26Oliver is shot and Bill carries him away amidst gunshots and chaos.