The Old Curiosity Shop · Chapter
XIII explained
Richard Swiveller visits the old curiosity shop to find it dismantled and learns from Quilp that Nell and her grandfather have fled.
What happens
Richard Swiveller visits the old curiosity shop to find it dismantled and learns from Quilp that Nell and her grandfather have fled. Quilp, having bought the shop's goods, is both surprised and troubled by their disappearance, suspecting the old man has hidden wealth. Swiveller, disappointed that his romantic scheme is thwarted, leaves his card. Later, Quilp is roused by knocking and, mistaking Swiveller for his wife, attacks him, leading to a scuffle. Quilp then forces two boys to fight over a bird cage; Kit wins the cage, rescuing Nell's bird, and brings it home to his delighted family.
Themes in this chapter
Greed and Exploitation
Quilp's frustration over the old man's hidden wealth and his purchase of the shop's goods highlight his avarice and exploitative nature.
Innocence vs. Corruption
Kit's selfless rescue of Nell's bird contrasts with Quilp's malicious manipulation, underscoring the clash between innocence and corruption.
Family and Community
The Nubbles family's joyful reunion over Kit's triumph emphasizes the warmth and solidarity of family bonds.
Characters to notice
- Richard Swiveller
Visits the shop, learns of the flight, and leaves his card with Quilp.
- Daniel Quilp
Has bought the shop's goods, is frustrated by the flight, and later scuffles with Swiveller before forcing a fight over a bird.
- Nell Trent
Has fled with her grandfather; her bird is rescued by Kit.
- Christopher Nubbles
Fights another boy to rescue Nell's bird and brings it home to his family.
- Sampson Brass
Awakens with Quilp and assists in the morning's events.
- Mrs. Nubbles
Anxiously greets Kit when he returns home bruised but triumphant.
Key passages
“Where in the devil's name are they gone? said the wondering Dick.”
Dick Swiveller, bewildered, asks where Nell and her grandfather have disappeared to.
Swiveller's shock at the flight reflects his thwarted plans.
“I've been a fightin' for a bird and won him, that's all.”
Kit explains that he fought and won the bird, downplaying his injuries.
Kit's bravery and modesty are evident in this moment.