Nicholas Nickleby, published between 1838 and 1839, is a story of resilience, family loyalty, and the triumph of good over evil. It follows the journey of young Nicholas Nickleby, who faces adversity and exploitation while striving to protect his family and remain true to his moral values.
—
The Nickleby Family’s Misfortune
The story begins with the sudden death of Nicholas Nickleby’s father, leaving the Nickleby family—Nicholas, his mother, and his younger sister, Kate—destitute. They seek help from their wealthy but cold and unscrupulous uncle, Ralph Nickleby, a greedy businessman who views the family as a burden. Ralph reluctantly agrees to help, but his actions are driven by self-interest.
Ralph sends Nicholas to work as an assistant at Dotheboys Hall, a remote and abusive boarding school run by the cruel and manipulative Wackford Squeers. Meanwhile, Kate is placed in a position that subjects her to the unwanted advances of Ralph’s wealthy associates.
—
Life at Dotheboys Hall
At Dotheboys Hall, Nicholas witnesses the horrific treatment of the school’s boys, who are malnourished and mistreated. He befriends Smike, a frail and kind-hearted boy who suffers greatly under Squeers’s cruelty. Nicholas’s growing outrage culminates in a confrontation where he beats Squeers and leaves the school, taking Smike with him.
—
Nicholas’s Journey of Independence
Nicholas and Smike travel to London, determined to build a new life. They find work with Vincent Crummles, the manager of a theatrical troupe. Their time with the eccentric and warm-hearted Crummles family brings moments of joy and humor. However, Nicholas soon decides to leave the troupe in pursuit of a more stable livelihood.
Through the help of new friends, Nicholas secures a respectable position with the kind-hearted Cheeryble brothers, who value his integrity and offer him steady employment.
—
Kate’s Struggles and Ralph’s Schemes
While Nicholas finds opportunities, Kate suffers under Ralph’s schemes. She endures harassment from Sir Mulberry Hawk, a predatory aristocrat, and other members of Ralph’s corrupt social circle. Nicholas intervenes to defend Kate’s honor, further straining his relationship with Ralph.
Ralph continues to conspire against Nicholas and Smike. When he discovers that Smike is the illegitimate son of a wealthy man, he attempts to use this information for financial gain.
—
Tragedy and Resolution
Smike’s health deteriorates, and he dies tragically, leaving Nicholas heartbroken. Despite this loss, Nicholas finds happiness with Madeline Bray, a young woman exploited by her selfish father. With the help of the Cheeryble brothers, Nicholas rescues Madeline, and the two eventually marry.
Ralph Nickleby’s downfall is brought about by his own greed and lack of compassion. His schemes unravel, and he discovers that Smike was, in fact, his own abandoned son. Consumed by guilt and despair, Ralph takes his own life.
—
Conclusion
The novel ends on a hopeful note. Nicholas, Kate, and their mother find happiness and stability, surrounded by the support of their friends and allies. The Cheeryble brothers continue their charitable works, symbolizing the triumph of kindness and generosity over cruelty and exploitation.
—
Themes and Legacy
Nicholas Nickleby critiques the social injustices of Victorian England, including the mistreatment of children in boarding schools and the exploitation of the vulnerable by the wealthy. The novel emphasizes the importance of integrity, resilience, and compassion in the face of adversity.
Rich in humor, drama, and memorable characters, Nicholas Nickleby remains a beloved work in Dickens’s oeuvre, showcasing his ability to combine social commentary with a compelling and uplifting narrative.