"Oliver Twist" is a novel that exposes the harsh realities of poverty, injustice, and social inequality in nineteenth-century England. Through the eponymous protagonist, Dickens portrays the struggles of an orphaned boy navigating a society marked by corruption and exploitation. The book examines themes of class, morality, and the importance of compassion in the face of adversity.

"The Merchant of Venice," on the other hand, is a Shakespearean play that delves into complex themes of love, prejudice, and the nature of justice. Set in sixteenth-century Venice, it tells the story of a Jewish moneylender, Shylock, and his interactions with Antonio, a Christian merchant. The play explores themes of anti-Semitism, mercy, and the consequences of revenge.