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How popular was Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens?

Oliver Twist was an instant bestseller when it was first published in 1838, and it remained one of Dickens's most popular works throughout his lifetime. The novel was serialized in Bentley's Miscellany from February to November 1837, and it was published in three volumes in 1838. The first edition sold out in a few days, and it was subsequently reprinted several times. By 1850, the novel had sold over 200,000 copies.

Oliver Twist was praised by critics for its vivid portrayal of London's criminal underworld, its exploration of social class and poverty, and its sympathetic treatment of the title character. The novel also sparked controversy, as some critics objected to its depiction of violence and its negative portrayal of Jews. Despite these objections, Oliver Twist was a huge commercial success, and it helped to establish Dickens as one of the most popular and influential writers of the Victorian era.

The popularity of Oliver Twist has endured over the years, and it remains one of Dickens's most widely read works today. The novel has been adapted into numerous films, television series, and stage productions, and it has been translated into more than 60 languages. Oliver Twist is a classic work of literature that continues to captivate readers around the world.

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