Nancy

A complex and tragic young woman caught between loyalty to her criminal life and a desire for redemption.

Core Belief

"Love and loyalty are paramount, even in the face of overwhelming darkness, but redemption may be unattainable."

Worldview

Nancy views the world as a cruel and unforgiving place, where escape from poverty and crime is nearly impossible. She sees herself as trapped by her circumstances and ultimately unworthy of salvation.

Personality

Nancy is tough and street-smart, but also possesses a surprising capacity for compassion and self-sacrifice. She is fiercely loyal to Sikes, despite his abuse, but ultimately chooses to betray Fagin to protect Oliver. She is plagued by guilt and a sense of hopelessness.

In Their Own Words

"“Oh, my dear brother! My poor, dear, sweet, innocent little brother! What has become of him! Where have they taken him to! Oh, do have pity, and tell me what’s been done with the dear boy, gentlemen; do, gentlemen, if you please, gentlemen!”"

"“No, no, sir; I will be good indeed; indeed, indeed I will, sir! I am a very little boy, sir; and it is so—so—”"

"“I wish some well-fed philosopher, whose meat and drink turn to gall within him; whose blood is ice, whose heart is iron; could have seen Oliver Twist clutching at the dainty viands that the dog had neglected. I wish he could have witnessed the horrible avidity with which Oliver tore the bits asunder with all the ferocity of famine."