Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. In Charles Dickens' novel Oliver Twist, Oliver is a young orphan boy born in a workhouse and raised in an environment of cruelty, neglect, and exploitation. Despite the harshness of his circumstances, Oliver retains an innate goodness and innocence that sets him apart from those around him. His journey takes him from the workhouse to the criminal underworld of London, where he encounters characters such as Fagin, Bill Sikes, and the Artful Dodger, before eventually finding refuge and love with Mr. Brownlow and the Maylie household. (a) Describe TWO ways in which Oliver's environment shapes his early character and experiences in the novel. [6 marks] (b) Examine the role of ONE villain in the novel and show how Dickens uses this character to criticise Victorian society. [6 marks] (c) In your view, what is the central theme of Oliver Twist? Give reasons for your answer. [3 marks]
A
B
C
D