Barnaby Rudge · Chapter
Chapter 22 explained
Joe Willet escorts Dolly Varden home after rescuing her from an attack, and their romantic tension grows.
What happens
Joe Willet escorts Dolly Varden home after rescuing her from an attack, and their romantic tension grows. Hugh joins them, unsettling Dolly. At the Varden home, Mrs. Varden and Miss Miggs criticize the locksmith, while Miggs tells Simon Tappertit about Joe's heroism, provoking his jealousy and threats.
Themes in this chapter
Innocence and Corruption
Dolly's innocent demeanor contrasts with Hugh's menacing presence and Simon's vengeful intentions.
Manipulation and Exploitation
Mrs. Varden and Miss Miggs use guilt and sympathy to manipulate the household, while Miggs exploits information to provoke Simon.
Characters to notice
- Joe Willet
Escorts Dolly home, expresses his love, and is reluctantly sent back by Mrs. Varden.
- Dolly Varden
Shows her charm and innocence while being courted by Joe, but is frightened by Hugh's presence.
- Hugh
Rides with the party at John Willet's request, covertly watching Dolly and unsettling her.
- Mrs. Varden
Insists Joe turn back, then lectures her husband on his supposed failings.
- Miss Miggs
Relays the story of Dolly's rescue to Simon Tappertit, fueling his jealousy.
- Simon Tappertit
Hears of Joe's heroics and vows that Joe's days are numbered.
Key passages
“It was a fine bright night, and for all her lowness of spirits Dolly kept looking up at the stars in a manner so bewitching (and she knew it!) that Joe was clean out of his senses...”
The night was clear and beautiful, and despite her sadness, Dolly looked at the stars so charmingly (and she was aware of her effect) that Joe was completely infatuated.
Highlights Joe's romantic feelings and Dolly's playful awareness.
“There are strings,' said Mr. Tappertit, flourishing his bread-and-cheese knife in the air, 'in the human heart that had better not be wibrated. That's what's the matter.'”
Simon Tappertit warns that there are sensitive emotions in people that should not be stirred, indicating his jealousy and anger.
Shows Simon's dramatic and threatening reaction to the news.