Nancy's Fate

Traces Nancy's tragic trajectory from hardened criminal to sacrificial heroine.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Nancy the Thief

Nancy the Thief Fagin's Accomplice Nancy is a young woman who has been a thief since childhood. She works for Fagin and is involved in his criminal schemes. The Recapture of Oliver Nancy helps Sikes recapture Oliver. She pretends to be his sister in the street, deceiving the bystanders. Her Rough Life Nancy lives with Sikes, who abuses her. She is hardened but not entirely devoid of conscience.

Growing Conscience

Growing Conscience Pity for Oliver Nancy feels sympathy for Oliver. She protects him from Sikes's violence during the recapture scene. The Decision to Act Nancy decides to help Oliver by contacting Rose Maylie. She risks her life to do what she believes is right. The First Meeting Nancy meets Rose and reveals information about Monks. She extracts a promise of secrecy.

The London Bridge Betrayal

The London Bridge Betrayal The Second Meeting Nancy meets Rose and Mr. Brownlow on London Bridge. She gives them detailed information about Monks. Refusal to Escape Despite their offers, Nancy refuses to leave Sikes. She is torn between her love for him and her desire to do good. The Fatal Choice Nancy returns to Sikes, knowing the danger. Her loyalty to him proves fatal.

Murder and Legacy

Murder and Legacy Sikes's Rage Sikes learns of Nancy's betrayal from Fagin. He confronts her and beats her to death in a fit of fury. The Death Scene Nancy dies holding Rose's handkerchief, praying for mercy. Her death is brutal and tragic. Aftermath Nancy's murder leads to Sikes's downfall and the gang's destruction. Her sacrifice enables Oliver's happy ending. She is remembered as a tragic heroine.

Early in the story

After Oliver's rescue by the Maylies

Near the climax

After the meeting