THE CHALLENGE OF LITERARY ADAPTATION—From Book To Play

When his father dies suddenly, Nicholas Nickleby must decide on his future. Unfortunately, Nicholas has very few prospects...and even less money. Luckily, his Uncle Ralph has pulled some strings at a school called Dotheboys Hall and Nicholas is hired on as a teacher. However, the naive and kindhearted Nicholas discovers that the headmaster, a sniveling worm by the name of Wackford Squeers, is a blackhearted, malicious bully who treats the boys in his care abominably. He'd like to leave, but then his uncle will cut off all support for his mother and sister. Should Nicholas tough it out? Or will he seek his fortune elsewhere?