A major focus of the novel is the Poor Law Amendment Act of 1834 , which created the workhouse system. Dickens satirizes the "failure of charity" and the hypocrisy of middle-class officials like Mr. Bumble , who prioritize rules over human life.

If you are looking for specific academic analysis, these papers and guides offer deep dives into these topics: Go to product viewer dialog for this item. Oliver Twist

The novel reflects how the Industrial Revolution increased class disparity, leading to the dehumanization of the poor who were "badged and ticketed" like products. Recommended Scholarly Resources