Arthur

Arthur is one of the protagonists of the novel. He is born near the River Thames and is given the moniker King Arthur of the Sewers and Slums. His mother wanted him killed because she cannot even care for herself and her other children, but those around her keep him alive while she recuperates. They give him this name because they want him to be destined for more than the poverty of his life predicts.

Arthur eventually begins schooling, and his original teacher sees something remarkable in him. He is humiliated and whipped when a new teacher comes in and does not believe Arthur is as intelligent as people make him out to be. Arthur leaves school after this beating, never to return.

Arthur’s father is abusive. When Arthur gets old enough, his father takes him to Bradbury & Evans to get a job. Mr. Bradbury becomes a...