Nell Trent, affectionately known as Little Nell, is characterized by her sweetness and delicate nature, exhibiting bravery and wisdom far beyond her years. As an orphan, she resides with her elderly grandfather, the owner of the Old Curiosity Shop, who, obsessed with securing her future, becomes consumed by gambling. This vice leads him into severe debt, ultimately resulting in the loss of their property and forcing them onto the streets. In their wanderings, Little Nell and her half-crazed grandfather face numerous adventures and hardships, as he continues to gamble away whatever resources they acquire. Their plight is alleviated temporarily when Mr. Marton, a compassionate schoolmaster, takes them to a village where they settle down. However, the trials and privations have taken their toll on Little Nell’s fragile health, leading to her slow and uncomplaining decline, culminating in her untimely demise.

Little Nell’s grandfather, the caretaker of the Old Curiosity Shop, is driven by a desperation to ensure a secure future for his granddaughter. This desperation manifests in a destructive gambling addiction, which only exacerbates their dire financial situation. His fixation on gambling stems from a misguided belief that it might lead to sudden wealth, yet it only leads to financial ruin, particularly after borrowing money from the sinister Daniel Quilp. Stripped of his assets and dignity, he and Little Nell are forced to wander aimlessly. Despite finding temporary solace with Mr. Marton, the grandfather is ultimately overwhelmed by grief and despair following Little Nell’s death, passing away on her grave.

Christopher Nubbles, commonly known as Kit, is an awkward yet deeply generous and sturdy youth, passionately devoted to Little Nell. Initially employed by her grandfather for errands, his loyalty is tested when he is falsely accused of revealing the grandfather’s gambling secrets, leading to his dismissal. Kit’s unwavering dedication persists as he assists the Single Gentleman in searching for Little Nell and her grandfather. His life takes a brighter turn when he finds refuge in the home of Mr. Garland, who supports Kit through adversity. Despite being wrongfully accused of theft by Sampson Brass, a plot orchestrated by Daniel Quilp, Kit’s innocence is eventually proven, thanks to the efforts of Mr. Garland and Dick Swiveller. His life culminates in happiness when he marries Barbara, the charming housemaid of the Garland household.

Daniel Quilp, the menacing and half-deranged dwarf, is the person from whom Little Nell’s grandfather borrows money to fund his gambling habit. Quilp’s sadistic nature is evident in his cruel treatment of those around him, including his submissive wife and Kit Nubbles. Driven by avarice and control, he aims to wed Little Nell to secure his hold over the family. His malevolence and criminal activities ultimately lead to his downfall, as he drowns during an attempted escape from the authorities closing in on his misdeeds.

Richard Swiveller, initially a scheming associate of Frederick Trent, experiences a transformation through his affection for a servant girl. Secured a job by Quilp to trace Little Nell and her grandfather, he becomes a clerk for Sampson Brass. Despite his initial waywardness, Dick’s sense of justice prevails when he helps clear Kit Nubbles of false theft charges. Aided in his convalescence by the Marchioness, the Brasses’ oppressed servant, he later provides for her education. As their relationship matures, he proposes to her, and she accepts, marking his evolution into a respectable man.

The Marchioness, later known as Sophronia Sphynx, is a timid and impoverished servant in the Brass household. Often neglected and forced to steal food to survive, she finds solace in the kindness of...

Sampson Brass, a corrupt attorney, serves as Daniel Quilp’s legal confidant. His duplicity is highlighted when he falsely accuses Kit Nubbles of theft, leading to his eventual downfall and incarceration due to his entanglement in Quilp’s illicit schemes.

Sally Brass, the astute yet formidable sister of Sampson Brass, is a law student with a sharper intellect than her brother. Known for her cruel treatment of the Marchioness, she is instrumental in the oppressive operations orchestrated by her brother and Quilp.

The Single Gentleman, a mysterious and refined lodger with Sampson Brass, is quietly determined in his pursuit to locate Little Nell and her grandfather. His quiet dedication is rewarded when he is revealed as Little Nell’s grandfather’s long-lost younger brother. Ultimately, he is disclosed to be Master Humphrey, the narrator of their story.

Mrs. Jarley, the jovial proprietor of a renowned waxworks, offers Little Nell and her grandfather temporary refuge within her itinerant show. Despite occasional indulgence in drinking, she remains a steadfast and amiable figure, employing Little Nell to explain exhibits and her grandfather to maintain the wax figures.

Frederick Trent, Little Nell’s wayward brother, harbors animosity toward his grandfather. Motivated by greed, he concocts a plot with his associate, Dick Swiveller, to marry Little Nell in hopes of claiming a supposed fortune her grandfather has secreted away for her.

Mrs. Betsey Quilp, Quilp’s long-suffering wife, endures both mental and physical abuse from her tyrannical husband, forced to comply with his every command, including spying on Little Nell. Despite her miserable existence, she inherits his estate following his demise. Her second marriage offers a stark contrast to her first, as her new husband is the antithesis of Quilp in every respect.

Mrs. Jiniwin, the corpulent and querulous mother of Mrs. Quilp, finds herself outmatched by her son-in-law's formidable demeanor. Her days are spent in futile reproaches against her daughter’s unfortunate marriage and verbal skirmishes with Quilp.

Miss Sophy Wackles, once the object of Dick Swiveller’s affections, ultimately marries a grocer, much to Dick’s chagrin. Her decision aligns with her mother’s aspirations, who runs a day school for young ladies.

Mrs. Wackles, the headmistress of a girls’ day school, is the mother of Sophy, Jane, and Melissa Wackles. She encourages Sophy’s marriage to Mr. Cheggs, deeming him a suitable match.

Jane Wackles, alongside her sister Melissa, forms part of the Wackles family, contributing to the familial dynamics surrounding Sophy’s marriage.

Melissa Wackles, like her sister Jane, is part of Sophy’s familial network, observing her sister’s nuptials to Mr. Cheggs.

Mr. Cheggs, the grocer who marries Sophy Wackles, is portrayed as a conformist, lacking the vivacity that Dick Swiveller possessed, yet a satisfactory partner in the eyes of Sophy’s family.

Miss Cheggs, the sister of Mr. Cheggs, shares a close friendship with Sophy Wackles, further intertwining the Wackles and Cheggs families.

Mrs. Nubbles, Kit’s devoted and emotional widowed mother, stands by her son during his legal troubles, consistently supporting him with food during his imprisonment. Her loyalty extends to joining the quest for Little Nell and her grandfather.

Little Jacob, the younger sibling of Kit Nubbles, forms part of the Nubbles family’s supportive unit, standing by Kit during his trials.

The Baby, the youngest member of the Nubbles family, completes the household unit alongside Kit and Little Jacob.

Miss Monflathers, the haughty and self-centered headmistress of a boarding school, exemplifies the worst of Victorian educational attitudes in her disdainful interaction with Little Nell. Her arrogance and cruelty illustrate the obstacles Nell faces outside her familial woes.

The Two Teachers in Miss Monflathers’ employ epitomize sycophancy, each attempting to surpass the other in their eagerness to please their domineering superior.

Miss Edwards, a compassionate charity student at the boarding school, extends a gesture of kindness toward Little Nell, drawing the ire of Miss Monflathers. Her friendship provides Nell with a glimpse of camaraderie and companionship.

Mr. Martin, a benevolent schoolmaster, and an early ally of Little Nell and her grandfather, later reencounters them and facilitates their relocation to his village. His gentleness and intelligence win the adoration of his pupils, and his intervention provides a haven for Nell, albeit briefly.

Harry, Mr. Martin’s cherished pupil, is a young boy on the brink of death. His affection for the schoolmaster is profound, and he manages a final farewell, underscoring the deep bond they share.

Dame West, the grandmother of Harry, shares in the poignant moments surrounding her grandson’s final days, representing familial tenderness.

Mr. Garland and Mrs. Garland, an elderly, benevolent couple, offer Kit Nubbles a nurturing environment and assist in the search for Little Nell and her grandfather. Their kindness is pivotal in Kit’s life, providing stability and support.

Abel Garland, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Garland, partners with Mr. Witherden, a notary, reflecting the family’s commitment to professional diligence and integrity.

Mr. Witherden and Mr. Chuckster are the diligent lawyers aiding the Single Gentleman in his pursuits related to Little Nell and the legal issues surrounding Quilp. Their professionalism assists in the resolution of these matters.

Mr. Chuckster, alongside Mr. Witherden, contributes to the legal efforts seeking Little Nell’s safety and Quilp’s capture, embodying industrious and proper legal conduct.

Barbara, the Garlands’ devoted servant girl, remains steadfastly loyal to Kit during his legal challenges. Her loyalty and affection culminate in her marriage to Kit, marking a new chapter in both their lives.

Mr. Slum, a military gentleman with a penchant for composing mediocre poetry, assists Mrs. Jarley by writing promotional verses for her waxworks, contributing a whimsical flair to her business endeavors.

Jem Groves, the proprietor of the Valiant Soldier pub, provides shelter to Little Nell and her grandfather during a storm. Though amiable, he reveals his unscrupulous side through dishonest card games with the grandfather.

Matt List and Isaac List are card players at the Valiant Soldier, whose games with Little Nell’s grandfather result in the loss of all her money, illustrating the predatory nature of their environment.

Isaac List, along with Matt List, engages in card games that capitalize on the grandfather’s vulnerabilities, contributing to Nell’s financial hardships.

The Old Sexton, caretaker of the village church, becomes part of the serene environment Little Nell often visits before her death. His role symbolizes the peace she seeks in her final days.

Old Davy, the deaf and aged gravedigger, is a close companion of the Old Sexton. Together, they represent the quietude and continuity of village life.

Tom Codlin, a grouchy partner in a shabby Punch-and-Judy show, becomes an unlikely travel companion for Little Nell and her grandfather, providing a temporary respite during their journey.

Mr. Harris, better known as Short Trotters, is the amiable partner in the Punch-and-Judy show, offering a more pleasant demeanor compared to his partner, Tom Codlin.

Mr. Grinder, another showman encountered by Little Nell during her time with the Punch-and-Judy troupe, exemplifies the diverse and often colorful characters she meets.

Jerry, the master of the dancing dogs, is part of the carnival ensemble that adds to the eclectic experiences of Little Nell and her grandfather.

Mr. Vuffin, a showman managing a giant and a limbless woman, contributes to the carnival atmosphere encountered by Little Nell during her travels.

Sweet William, a performer skilled in card tricks and conjuring, adds to the carnival’s mystique with his sleight of hand.

Joe Jowl, a conniving individual, attempts to manipulate Little Nell’s grandfather into committing a robbery against Mrs. Jarley, highlighting the moral challenges faced by the family.

Tom Scott, the beleaguered young servant of Daniel Quilp, suffers under his master’s tyranny. Despite his hardships, Tom finds escapism in acrobatics and ultimately transforms his life into one of professional tumbling following Quilp’s death.

The Bachelor, a kind-hearted gentleman residing in the village where Little Nell and her grandfather eventually settle, fosters a nurturing relationship with Nell, imparting local lore and wisdom. His identity remains elusive, yet his benevolence significantly impacts Nell’s final days.