Oliver Fights Noah Claypole

Noah, goaded by jealousy over Oliver's promotion to a more visible role in funerals, taunts Oliver about his mother, calling her a 'regular right-down bad 'un.' This insult to his dead mother ignites a fierce rage in Oliver. He attacks Noah, knocking him to the ground. Charlotte and Mrs. Sowerberry rush in and subdue Oliver, beating and scratching him. They lock him in the cellar. This is a pivotal moment, as it marks the first time Oliver actively rebels against his oppressors, revealing a hidden strength and spirit beneath his meek exterior.