Fagin's death occurs at the end of the novel when he is captured and sentenced to death for his crimes, which include organizing and running a gang of thieves that included young children like Oliver. His conviction is a result of the evidence presented against him by various characters throughout the story.
While some readers may feel a sense of justice or retribution for Fagin's misdeeds, Dickens does not explicitly justify his death or portray it as a deserved outcome. Rather, he portrays Fagin as a complex character who is both a villain and a victim of his circumstances.
The depiction of Fagin's death serves several literary purposes:
1. Exploration of Morality: Fagin's death raises questions about morality, punishment, and the nature of justice. It challenges readers to consider whether his crimes warrant the ultimate punishment and reflects the tension between society's need for law and order and the complexity of human nature.
2. Pathos and Empathy: Despite Fagin's moral failings, Dickens still evokes a sense of pathos and empathy in readers. His final moments, especially his request to see Oliver one last time, humanize him and add depth to his character. This emotional aspect of his death adds a layer of complexity to the reader's response.
3. Critique of Societal Injustice: Fagin's death can also be seen as a commentary on societal injustice and the plight of marginalized individuals. Dickens highlights the influence of poverty and societal neglect in shaping individuals like Fagin, suggesting that society bears some responsibility for the circumstances that lead to criminal behavior.
4. Plot Resolution and Closure: Fagin's death provides closure to the narrative by bringing the main antagonist's storyline to an end. It allows the resolution of the conflict and the development of the novel's themes to come to a satisfying conclusion.
Overall, the death of Fagin in "Oliver Twist" is presented as a tragic event that raises complex moral and societal questions. While some may find justification in his punishment, Dickens's characterization and narrative techniques encourage readers to go beyond simple judgments and consider the broader context of the character and the story.