Throughout the novel Oliver Twist there is a great discrepancy existing between the lower and upper class of society. From the onset of the novel it is clear that the upper class believe they are superior. They decree justice for the lower class but they treat them as mere criminals and petty thieves. Such actions demonstrate the clear hypocrisy of the upper class's actions. The first chapter of the novel details Oliver's birth and the tragic death of his mother while giving birth to him. Because his mother did not have a wedding ring on, it is inferred by the doctor that she was not married; this does not surprise him due to the fact that many poor people are not married. .
The middle class edicts what is moral and proper in society, and they establish houses and workhouses to aid the poor. However, this philanthropic and "moral " tactic is severely corrupted. No decisions are presented to the lower class when it comes to their well-being. For example, when Oliver is sent to a "baby farm " during his infancy, is well-being is entrusted into the negligent hands of Mrs. Mann. She does not provide proper care for Oliver or the rest the children in her care. Furthermore, she barely feeds the children and pockets the money the government allots to her to spend on the children. Orphans such as Oliver are proclaimed criminals from their birth and are not permitted to beg in the streets of London. This policy directly undermines English society because it forces the poor to engage in criminal activity just to survive. .
Ironically, the upper class is forcing the lower to become criminals; this is demonstrated when Oliver is indirectly forced to join a criminal gang. Oliver was left with no other alternative even though he knew he was betraying his morals. The upper class has created a society where the poor have to struggle against oppression and are left without a substitute to a better life.