The Old Curiosity Shop, Chapter 45 summary

What happens

1. Despite severe pain, Nell leads her reluctant grandfather out of the manufacturing town toward the countryside.
2. They pass polluted factories and desperate inhabitants, then sleep outdoors after sharing only a penny loaf.
3. The next morning, Nell cannot eat, and her grandfather consumes the bread bought with their last penny.
4. Seeking food, Nell encounters a bereaved unemployed father and hears a mother challenge unequal treatment of two boys.
5. Refused help in another town, the travelers try to reach houses beyond its streets.
6. Nell approaches a traveler carrying a book, shrieks when he turns toward her, and falls unconscious.

In this chapter

What to notice

The mother demands equal consideration for a child left ignorant. Her appeal connects punishment with society's failure to teach children right from wrong.

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