What does “course” and “by hand” mean here?
For the next eight or ten months, Oliver was the victim of a systematic course of treachery and deception. He was brought up by hand. (Oliver Twist)

Hi.
What does “course” and “by hand” mean here?
Thank you.

Question

What does “course” and “by hand” mean here?
For the next eight or ten months, Oliver was the victim of a systematic course of treachery and deception. He was brought up by hand. (Oliver Twist)

Hi. 
What does “course” and “by hand” mean here?
Thank you.

Answer

Hi,
Brought up by hand indicates that he was spanked or otherwise physically punished as a part of growing up.

A course is an action or event dispensed over a period of time.  A university course is a subject taught over a prescribed period of time and broken down into portions or sections.  A course of medicine is the same.  "Take 2 tablets, 2 times a day for a week."

In Oliver's situation, it means that he was subject to intentional, repeated treachery and deception.

I hope this helps,
Stephen

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