Who Nicholas Nickleby is
Nicholas Nickleby is nineteen when his father's death leaves his mother, his sister Kate and himself with little money. His wealthy uncle Ralph finds him work as an assistant at Dotheboys Hall, a boarding school in Yorkshire. There, Nicholas discovers that Wackford Squeers offers the boys hunger and punishment instead of proper teaching and care.
What Nicholas Nickleby wants
Nicholas needs wages to support his family, but he cannot accept the cruelty he sees around him. When Squeers prepares to flog Smike, Nicholas steps in despite the risk to his job. His courage grows from concern for vulnerable people, though his anger often brings trouble of its own.
Nicholas Nickleby and the others in the story
Smike finds in Nicholas the first person who treats him kindly, and their friendship becomes central to the story. Nicholas also stands by Kate as she faces the attentions of powerful men in London. Against Ralph's cold calculations, these loyalties show a family held together by care rather than money.
Questions
Who is Nicholas Nickleby?
Nicholas is the brave, hot tempered young man at the centre of Dickens's novel, trying to support his mother and sister.
How does Nicholas Nickleby help Smike?
He speaks gently to Smike, helps with his work and intervenes when Squeers prepares to beat him.
Is Nicholas Nickleby related to Ralph Nickleby?
Yes, Ralph is Nicholas's wealthy uncle, but he treats the family coldly and offers help that costs him little.
