Who Amy Dorrit is
Amy Dorrit grows up in the Marshalsea, where her father, William Dorrit, is imprisoned for debt. Small, shy and plainly dressed, she earns money by sewing, including work in Mrs Clennam's house.
She also cooks and cares for her father while protecting his sense of dignity. Her daily work keeps the family together, though most of her relatives scarcely notice what she does.
What Amy Dorrit wants
Amy's care centres on supporting her family without hurting her father's pride.
Her goodness takes the form of useful work rather than grand gestures or demands for thanks. Through Amy, the novel sets steady kindness against the harm caused by debt, shame and the love of money.
Amy Dorrit and the others in the story
Arthur Clennam meets Amy at his mother's house and discovers that she returns to the Marshalsea after work. Moved by her circumstances, he helps the Dorrit family carefully and tries to protect their dignity.
Against these unsettled lives, Amy offers the quiet, dependable care that Arthur comes to respect.
Questions
Why is Amy Dorrit called Little Dorrit?
Little Dorrit is Amy's nickname, reflecting her small size and quiet manner.
Why does Amy Dorrit live in prison?
Amy is born in the Marshalsea because her father is held there for debt. She grows up caring for him and working to support the family.
How does Amy Dorrit know Arthur Clennam?
Arthur first notices Amy sewing in Mrs Clennam's house. His interest in her circumstances leads him to help her family.