Oliver Twist, Chapter 1 summary

What happens

1. Oliver Twist is born in a workhouse and struggles for breath before crying loudly.
2. His mother asks to see him, kisses his forehead, and dies despite attempts to revive her.
3. The nurse explains that Oliver's mother arrives the previous night after being found in the street, with her origins unknown.
4. The surgeon notices her missing wedding ring, advises gruel if Oliver cries, and leaves for dinner.
5. The nurse dresses Oliver in worn clothes, which mark him as a parish orphan rather than a child of uncertain rank.

In this chapter

What to notice

Oliver's mother’s request brings mother and child together for a single embrace. Her death immediately leaves Oliver without maternal care.

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