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Oliver Twist, Chapter 17 summary

Chapter 17 of 53 · 13 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 17, Mr. Bumble travels to London on parish business, discovers a reward notice for Oliver Twist, and gives Mr. Brownlow a damaging account of the boy’s character. Brownlow accepts his claims and forbids further mention of Oliver, while Mrs. Bedwin remains convinced of the child’s goodness.

What happens

  1. The narrator discusses sudden changes of scene before returning to Oliver’s birthplace.
  2. Mr. Bumble visits Mrs. Mann, pays her allowance, and announces a London journey concerning two paupers’ parish settlement.
  3. Dick asks to leave Oliver a loving message after his burial, but the adults condemn him and lock him away.
  4. In London, Mr. Bumble reads Mr. Brownlow’s reward notice and immediately visits his house.
  5. Mr. Bumble describes Oliver as vicious and dishonest, supports his identity with official papers, and receives five guineas.
  6. Mr. Brownlow rejects Oliver despite Mrs. Bedwin’s protests, while Oliver thinks sadly about his friends.

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In this chapter

OliverBrownlow

What to notice

Bedwin refuses to surrender her judgment of Oliver to Bumble’s claims. Her loyalty contrasts with Brownlow’s acceptance of the accusations.

Quick check

What does Mr. Bumble actually know about Oliver when he visits Mr. Brownlow?

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