Introduction:

In the classic novel "Oliver Twist" written by Charles Dickens, the protagonist Oliver is depicted as a young orphan living in a workhouse. One of the most famous scenes in the novel is when Oliver asks for more gruel, a thin oatmeal-based porridge that was the main source of nutrition for the workhouse inhabitants. Oliver's request for more gruel leads to a series of events that shape the course of his life.

Oliver's Request:

Oliver's life in the workhouse is marked by hunger, mistreatment, and a constant longing for more food. One day, he gathers the courage to approach the master of the workhouse and timidly asks for more gruel. This simple request sends shockwaves through the workhouse as his audacity is seen as a direct challenge to the oppressive regime.

The Reaction:

Upon hearing Oliver's request, the master of the workhouse, Mr. Bumble, is taken aback. He is outraged by Oliver's audacity to ask for more food and considers it a sign of ingratitude and disobedience. Mr. Bumble's reaction is met with astonishment from the other officials present in the workhouse.

Consequences:

Oliver's request for more gruel sets off a chain of events that drastically alters his life. The officials at the workhouse decide that Oliver must be punished for his audacity. They label him a troublemaker and decide to sell him into apprenticeship to a cruel chimney sweep named Mr. Gamfield.

Escape from the Workhouse:

Before the plan to sell Oliver into apprenticeship can be carried out, Oliver is sent to Mr. Sowerberry, an undertaker, as an intermediate step. While working at the undertaker's, Oliver suffers further mistreatment and decides to escape from his miserable life.

Conclusion:

In summary, when Oliver asks for more gruel, he receives a strong negative reaction from the workhouse officials, which leads to his punishment and subsequent escape. This pivotal moment in the novel sets Oliver on a path of adventure, hardship, and ultimately, self-discovery. The request for more gruel becomes a symbol of Oliver's resilience and desire for a better life, propelling the narrative forward and capturing the reader's sympathy for the young protagonist.