# Chapter 22 explained — Barnaby Rudge

> Chapter companion for Barnaby Rudge by Charles Dickens.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/barnaby_rudge_se/chapters/chapter-22
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/barnaby_rudge_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/barnaby_rudge_se/chapters