Understanding Today's Crossword Puzzle
Today's clue "Villain who would fain be good-hearted?" leads us to the answer "FAGIN." Here's why this connection makes sense:
1. Villain: In literature, "villains" are characters who typically act in an evil or malevolent manner.
2. Fain: "Fain" means to be inclined or willing in Old English.
3. Good-hearted: A trait associated with kindness and compassion.
- Fagin, a character in Charles Dickens' novel "Oliver Twist," portrays a complex role in the story.
- While Fagin is depicted as a villain due to his involvement in criminal activities and leading a group of young pickpockets, there are instances where he shows a sense of care for those under his influence.
- His desire to appear good-hearted at times, especially in his relationship with the orphaned Oliver Twist, creates a layered and conflicted characterization.
This intricate blend of negative and positive qualities in Fagin's character aligns with the clue's description of a villain who would fain be good-hearted, making "FAGIN" the fitting answer for today's crossword puzzle.
Definition of "FAGIN"
A criminal likened to the character Fagin in Dickens's novel Oliver Twist, especially in being a trainer or leader of a gang of young thieves or pickpockets. Also with the (Criminals' slang): a title given to the head of a gang of receivers of stolen goods.
The Crossword clue "Villain who would fain be good-hearted?" published 2 time/s & has 1 answer/s.
Crossword | Date | Answer |
Evening Standard - Cryptic | 5 February 2025 | FAGIN |