Charles Dickens’s Oliver Twist faced initial criticism for its portrayal of London’s underworld, yet its realistic depiction of vice and social injustice captivated many readers. While some found the novel shocking and immoral, Dickens defended his work as an attempt to strip crime of its romantic veneer. Despite mixed reactions, Oliver Twist became a significant milestone in Dickens's literary career, marrying melodrama with a stark social commentary.

The Impact of Newgate Novels

During Dickens's time, the Newgate novel was a popular genre that explored prison life and the escapades of criminals. Dickens borrowed from this genre, transforming it with his brand of realism. The novel’s subplot involving Bill Sikes and Nancy carries melodramatic tones, yet these characters were intentionally crafted to deviate from the typical romanticized figures like Macheath from John Gay’s The Beggar’s Opera.

Unromantic Realism

Oliver Twist opens with the grim reality of poverty and corruption, setting a bleak tone where the innocent suffer and the unscrupulous thrive. Characters such as Nancy, Sikes, Fagin, and the boys illustrate the harshness of the world Dickens knew. While he could be sentimental about virtue, Dickens approached vice with unflinching realism, presenting a vivid social critique through his characters.

Characterization and Psychological Depth

Critics of Dickens's era debated the portrayal of characters like Bill Sikes, whose unredeemable nature stirred controversy. Nancy's character added complexity with her mix of immorality and kindness. Dickens’s gift for penetrating the minds of his characters brought a new psychological realism to literature, particularly in the tragic ends of Sikes and Fagin, with scenes so compelling they moved audiences to tears during public readings.

Dramatic and Theatrical Influences

Dickens’s affinity for theater influenced his storytelling, blending elements of melodrama and coincidence. This theatrical style enriched Oliver Twist, making the narrative vivid and engaging despite criticisms of its plot. Dickens’s ability to invoke both pathos and horror, underpinned by a realistic narrative, ensured the novel’s wide appeal.

Reception and Criticism

Upon its release, Oliver Twist received mixed reviews. While many embraced its gritty realism, some critics, like Thackeray, disliked its sentimental portrayal of characters such as Nancy. Other critics, like George Borrow, noted the enthusiasm of readers, while some, including Henry Fox, criticized its depiction of criminals and social ills. Despite this, Dickens’s storytelling captivated a broad audience, highlighting his role as a moralist and satirist.

Enduring Legacy

Modern critics acknowledge the novel's structural weaknesses, yet its vivid depiction of London life and moral themes remain impactful. Dickens humanized criminals, challenging readers to see their connection to society, a departure from previous works that either idealized or demonized such figures. The book’s lasting influence lies in its moral vision and the timeless confrontation between good and evil, as argued by critics like Geoffrey Thurley and John Bayley.