Nicholas Nickleby · Chapters

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Chapter companions for Nicholas Nickleby by Charles Dickens.

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Chapter 1
Preface to the First Edition
In the preface, Dickens addresses claims from Yorkshire schoolmasters that Mr. Squeers is based on them, asserting that Squeers represents a class of brutal, ignorant schoolmasters rather than any individual. He emphasizes that the horrors depicted at Dotheboys Hall are understated compared to real atrocities. He also reveals that the Cheeryble brothers are drawn from real, benevolent individuals. The preface concludes with a farewell to readers, reflecting on the intimate bond between a periodical writer and his audience.
Chapter 2
Preface to the First Cheap Edition
In this preface, Dickens explains the origins of 'Nicholas Nickleby,' detailing his investigation into the brutal Yorkshire schools that inspired the novel. He describes his journey to Yorkshire under a false pretext to gather information, recounts a warning from a local man about the schools, and defends the realism of his characters, noting that the Cheeryble brothers were based on real people. He also addresses the public's response and clarifies that Squeers represents a class of abusers rather than a single individual.
Chapter 3
Nicholas Nickleby
The opening chapter introduces the Nickleby family after the death of Mr. Godfrey Nickleby, leaving his son Nicholas Nickleby with a small inheritance. Nicholas marries and has a large family, but after his death, his widow and children—Nicholas, Kate, and Mrs. Nickleby—are left in reduced circumstances. The chapter sets the stage for the family's struggles and the introduction of the miserly uncle, Ralph Nickleby.
Chapter 4
I
The chapter introduces the Nickleby family history, beginning with Mr. Godfrey Nickleby's marriage and his unexpected inheritance from his uncle. It details the contrasting natures of his two sons: Ralph, who becomes a ruthless money-lender, and Nicholas, who lives a quiet country life. After the death of their father, Ralph pursues wealth in London while Nicholas marries and has two children, Nicholas and Kate. When Nicholas's father loses his fortune through speculation, he dies of grief, leaving his widow and children destitute.
Chapter 5
Of Mr. Ralph Nickleby, and his establishments, and his undertakings, and of a great joint stock company of vast national importance.
This chapter introduces Mr. Ralph Nickleby, a cold and cunning man who lives in Golden Square and conducts mysterious business. His clerk, Newman Noggs, a former gentleman fallen into poverty, serves him. Ralph receives a visit from Mr. Bonney, who pitches a speculative scheme: the 'United Metropolitan Improved Hot Muffin and Crumpet Baking and Punctual Delivery Company.' Ralph agrees to attend a public meeting, revealing his involvement in dubious financial ventures.

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Preface to the First Edition

Preface to the First Cheap Edition

Nicholas Nickleby

I

Of Mr. Ralph Nickleby, and his establishments, and his undertakings, and of a great joint stock company of vast national importance.