chapter1-5
Chapter 1: The Parish Boy's Progress
The story begins in a workhouse in an unnamed town. A poor woman, weakened from childbirth, is found on the street and brought to the workhouse. There, she gives birth to Oliver Twist, but unfortunately, she dies almost immediately. Oliver is thus left an orphan in the cold and unforgiving environment of the workhouse, where the living conditions are harsh, and food is scarce. The parish officials, responsible for the workhouse, seem more concerned with saving money than caring for the inmates.
Chapter 2: Treats of Oliver Twist's Growth, Education, and Board
Oliver grows up in the workhouse, enduring years of mistreatment. At nine years old, he and the other boys are so starved that they draw lots to decide who will ask for more food. Oliver is the unlucky one chosen to approach the workhouse master. With great courage, he steps forward and utters the iconic line, "Please, sir, I want some more." This simple plea shocks the authorities, who see it as an act of insolence.
Chapter 3: Relates How Oliver Twist Was Very Near Getting a Place Which Would Not Have Been a Sinecure
As punishment for asking for more food, Oliver is locked up in a dark room for days. After that, the parish board decides to get rid of him. They offer five pounds to anyone who will take Oliver as an apprentice. A chimney sweep named Gamfield shows interest, but when the magistrate learns about Gamfield's cruel treatment of his apprentices, the deal falls through. Oliver is spared from a potentially more miserable fate.
Chapter 4: Oliver, Being Offered Another Place, Makes His First Entry into Public Life
The board continues its search for someone to take Oliver. Eventually, they send him to Mr. Sowerberry, an undertaker. Oliver's arrival at the undertaker's shop is met with mixed reactions. Mrs. Sowerberry is initially unkind, thinking Oliver will be a burden, while Noah Claypole, another apprentice, takes an instant dislike to him and begins to bully him right away.
Chapter 5: Oliver Incurs the Vengeance of Noah Claypole
Noah constantly taunts Oliver about his mother and his lowly origins. One day, pushed to the limit, Oliver loses his temper and attacks Noah. Mrs. Sowerberry comes to Noah's aid and scolds Oliver harshly. Fearing further punishment, Oliver decides to run away from the undertaker's shop, thus setting the stage for the next part of his arduous journey in search of a better life, away from the cruelty and oppression he has known so far.
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