The Old Curiosity Shop · Chapter
XLV explained
Nell and her grandfather continue their harrowing journey through a grim industrial town, facing extreme poverty, hunger, and despair.
What happens
Nell and her grandfather continue their harrowing journey through a grim industrial town, facing extreme poverty, hunger, and despair. Nell's physical strength wanes as she witnesses scenes of suffering and injustice, including a confrontation between a mother and a gentleman over a transported son. They finally encounter a traveler who, upon turning around, causes Nell to faint in shock.
Themes in this chapter
Poverty and Suffering
The chapter vividly portrays extreme poverty, hunger, and the physical toll of their journey, with scenes of dead children and desperate families.
The Urban vs. Rural World
The oppressive industrial town contrasts with Nell's longing for the freedom of pure air and open country, highlighting the dehumanizing effects of urban squalor.
Characters to notice
- Nell Trent
Nell is physically exhausted and in pain, yet she resolves to continue their journey despite her suffering. She faints upon seeing the traveler's face.
- Mr. Trent
Nell's grandfather complains bitterly of hunger and shows wavering resolve, but he is led by Nell's determination.
Key passages
“That's a dead child. I and five hundred other men were thrown out of work three months ago. That is my third dead child, and last. Do you think I have charity to bestow, or a morsel of bread to spare?”
A gaunt man tells Nell that he has no charity to give, as he and many others have been unemployed for months and he has lost his third child to starvation.
This exchange underscores the extreme destitution and hopelessness of the industrial poor.
“If you save this boy because he may not know right from wrong, why did you not save mine who was never taught the difference?”
A mother argues with a gentleman that her son, though not deaf or dumb, was never taught right from wrong, and thus deserves the same mercy as the deaf-mute boy he is returning.
This highlights the theme of social injustice and the arbitrary nature of mercy in the justice system.