Barnaby Rudge · Chapter
Chapter 11 explained
At the Maypole Inn, the regular customers gather and learn that Mr.
What happens
At the Maypole Inn, the regular customers gather and learn that Mr. Chester is awaiting Mr. Haredale for a likely duel. The men discuss the impending confrontation, with Solomon Daisy speculating on the outcome and the possibility of bloodshed. John Willet philosophizes about Hugh's lack of imagination, comparing him to an animal. Hugh, asleep by the fire, is described in detail. When Haredale arrives, he is led to the great room upstairs, where he enters to meet Chester.
Themes in this chapter
Mob Violence and Chaos
The anticipation of a duel and the discussion of bloodshed foreshadow the violent chaos of the Gordon Riots.
Social Injustice and Class
John Willet's dehumanizing view of Hugh as an 'animal' highlights class prejudice and the treatment of the lower classes.
Guilt and Retribution
The legend of the bloodstain at the Warren and Haredale's obsession with finding the murderer reflect themes of guilt and vengeance.
Characters to notice
- John Willet
Host of the Maypole, shares news of Chester's arrival and philosophizes about Hugh's nature.
- Solomon Daisy
Speculates that Chester and Haredale will duel, and recounts the legend of the bloodstain at the Warren.
- Hugh
Sleeps by the fire, described as a muscular, animalistic figure; John Willet compares him to a beast.
- Barnaby Rudge
Present in the chimney-corner, feigning sleep; delivered Chester's letter to Haredale.
- Mr. Geoffrey Haredale
Arrives at the Maypole and goes to meet Chester in the great room upstairs.
Key passages
“That chap, sir, though he's got all his faculties about him—bottled up and corked down, if I may say so, somewheres or another—has no more imagination than Barnaby has.”
John Willet argues that Hugh, despite having his wits, lacks imagination just like Barnaby.
John's condescending view of Hugh as an unthinking animal.
“It's as plain as the nose on Parkes's face—they'll fight in that room.”
Solomon Daisy is certain that Chester and Haredale will duel in the large room upstairs.
Solomon's prediction of the duel.
“He's more at his ease among horses than men. I look upon him as a animal himself.”
John Willet considers Hugh more comfortable with animals than people, and regards him as a beast.
John's dehumanizing characterization of Hugh.