What two traits does Charles Dickens point out about British society during the Industrial Revolution in this excerpt from Olive

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What two traits does Charles Dickens point out about British society during the Industrial Revolution in this excerpt from Olive

r Twist? “It's a nasty trade,” said Mr. Limbkins, when Gamfield had again stated his wish. “Young boys have been smothered in chimneys before now,” said another gentleman. “That's acause they damped the straw afore they lit it in the chimbley to make 'em come down again,” said Gamfield; “that's all smoke, and no blaze; vereas smoke ain't o' no use at all in making a boy come down, for it only sinds him to sleep, and that's wot he likes. Boys is wery obstinit, and wery lazy, Gen'l'men, and there's nothink like a good hot blaze to make 'em come down vith a run. It's humane too, gen'l'men, acause, even if they've stuck in the chimbley, roasting their feet makes 'em struggle to hextricate theirselves.”
1.a lack of regard for life among the working class
2.parish officials' ignorance of the risks apprentices faced
3. the employment of children for hazardous tasks
4.the reluctance of young, able-bodied boys to work
5. the use of parish orphans for raising money for the parish

English

1 answer:

Naddika [7.4K] · Answer 1 · 2026-03-21T11:44:50+03:00

This excerpt from Charles Dickens’ "Oliver Twist" highlights two significant characteristics of British society during the industrial revolution: first, a disregard for life among the working class, and second, the use of children in dangerous jobs. Dickens’ works portray the negative aspects of Victorian society, which were the consequences of the Industrial Revolution. Many issues arose as society became class-divided, with the wealthy becoming increasingly affluent while the impoverished faced further hardship. Child labor was rampant, particularly in factories, as a means to combat poverty. People's focus shifted to self-interest, neglecting societal welfare. The growth of urban areas led to a rise in slums. Individualism thrived, promoting personal advancement over community progress. Children were discouraged from dreaming and living within a whimsical world, instead being taught to adhere to logic and rationality. This era marked a significant decline in human compassion throughout history.