Oliver Twist, Chapter 18 summary
Chapter 18 of 53 · 12 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 18, Fagin frightens Oliver with a story about hanging, isolates him, and then surrounds him with companions who praise theft. Oliver still wants to leave and refuses stolen money, but loneliness makes their company welcome, giving Fagin another means of weakening his resistance.
What happens
- Fagin describes his part in a young informer’s hanging and hints that Oliver could suffer the same punishment.
- Oliver spends many days alone, grieving over his absent friends and exploring the shut-up, neglected house.
- While Oliver cleans his boots, the Dodger and Charley praise stealing, but Oliver says he wants to leave.
- Fagin endorses the Dodger’s arguments and brings home Miss Betsy and Tom Chitling, who describes his recent imprisonment.
- Oliver receives almost constant company, while Fagin uses games and amusing robbery stories to wear down his resistance.
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In this chapter
What to notice
The sentence identifies Fagin’s control over Oliver. The closing explanation shows that isolation and friendly entertainment form parts of the same attempt to corrupt him.
Quick check
Why does the Dodger say he abandons Oliver during their escape?
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