Nancy's Internal Conflict

Traces Nancy's struggle between her loyalty to Sikes and her growing conscience.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Divided Self

The Divided Self The Hardened Criminal Nancy has lived a life of crime since childhood. She is tough, streetwise, and loyal to Fagin and Sikes. The Spark of Humanity Despite her life, Nancy shows moments of compassion. She protects Oliver from Sikes's violence during the recapture. The Inner Turmoil Nancy is torn between her criminal identity and her better nature. This conflict intensifies as the story progresses.

The Decision to Help

The Decision to Help The Moral Awakening 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 Fear of Discovery Nancy is terrified of being found out. She knows Sikes will kill her if he learns of her betrayal.

The London Bridge Meeting

The London Bridge Meeting The Second Meeting Nancy meets Rose and Mr. Brownlow on London Bridge. She gives them detailed information about Monks. The 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.

The Tragic End

The Tragic End The Confrontation Sikes learns of Nancy's betrayal. He confronts her and beats her to death. The Final Plea Nancy begs for mercy, holding Rose's handkerchief. She dies with a prayer on her lips. The Resolution of Conflict Nancy's internal conflict ends in tragedy. Her conscience leads to her death, but her actions enable Oliver's salvation.

Early in the story

After Oliver's rescue by the Maylies

Near the climax

After the meeting