# Nicholas Takes His Leave of the Theatre explained — Nicholas Nickleby

> Chapter companion for Nicholas Nickleby by Charles Dickens.

## What happens

Nicholas announces his departure from Mr. Crummles' theatrical company, leading to a series of farewell performances. He receives a letter from Newman Noggs urging his immediate return to London, prompting him to leave abruptly despite Crummles' attempts to keep him. Nicholas and Smike hastily depart, encountering Miss Snevellicci and her family before their journey.

## Themes in this chapter

### Ambition and Speculation

Nicholas's decision to leave the theatre reflects his ambition to seek a better future and address family concerns, while Crummles speculates on maximizing profits from Nicholas's departure.

### Resilience and Moral Integrity

Nicholas remains resolute in his decision to leave despite pressure from Crummles, demonstrating his commitment to his sister and moral duty.

## Character check-ins

### Nicholas Nickleby

Decides to leave the theatre troupe and return to London after receiving a letter from Newman Noggs.

### Smike

Plays the role of a tailor in the interlude and assists Nicholas in preparing for their departure.

### Vincent Crummles

Attempts to persuade Nicholas to stay for multiple farewell performances, but ultimately accepts his departure.

### Miss Snevellicci

Interacts with Nicholas after the performance and invites him to meet her family.

### Newman Noggs

Sends a letter urging Nicholas to return to London immediately.

## Key lines

> Heigho! I wish all this were over.

Nicholas sighs, expressing his desire to leave the theatrical life behind.

_Shows Nicholas's restlessness and longing to return to London._

> If a man would commit an inexpiable offence against any society, large or small, let him be successful. They will forgive him any crime but that.

Nicholas reflects on how success breeds envy and malice from others.

_Highlights the theme of hypocrisy and social jealousy._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/nicholas_nickleby_se/chapters/xxx
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/nicholas_nickleby_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/nicholas_nickleby_se/chapters