Vai al contenuto
The Library
of Alexandria

A character in Oliver Twist

Who is Nancy?

By the Library of Alexandria · 2 minute read · Updated 23 Ott 2026

In short

  • Nancy is a young woman among London's thieves in Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens.
  • She is loyal to Bill Sikes, but Oliver's suffering draws out her pity.
  • She helps bring Oliver back to Fagin, then challenges Sikes over his rough treatment of the boy.

Who Nancy is

Nancy belongs to the thieves' world, where Oliver finds shelter without understanding the danger around him. She visits Fagin's den with Bet and shows Oliver a rough but genuine kindness.

Her warmth toward the boy sits beside her part in keeping him among the criminals. This contrast makes her more than a simple friend or enemy to Oliver.

What Nancy wants

Nancy feels loyalty to Sikes, the violent burglar who uses fear to control others. Yet she also feels pity for Oliver, whose helplessness troubles her.

Nancy and the others in the story

When Oliver goes on an errand for Mr Brownlow, Nancy spots him in the street and calls out. Sikes seizes him, and together they bring him back to Fagin's den.

Nancy is troubled by her part in taking Oliver away from his new home. She quarrels with Sikes about his rough handling of the boy, revealing the conflict between loyalty and compassion.

Questions

Who is Nancy in Oliver Twist?

Nancy is a young woman connected to Fagin's circle of thieves and loyal to Bill Sikes.

Is Nancy kind to Oliver?

Yes, Nancy shows Oliver kindness and feels pity for him, although she also helps return him to the thieves.

How does Nancy feel about Bill Sikes?

Nancy is loyal to Sikes, but she challenges him when he treats Oliver roughly.

The classics, in your inbox

Characters, key ideas and where to start, by email. Leave any time.

Read Oliver Twist, and 200,000+ more

Start free and open 200,000+ books to read and to hear, with a 15-minute summary of every one, and any book printed at cost as a paperback, hardcover or large print.

Free to start. Renews every year. Cancel anytime.

Start free