Barnaby Rudge · Chapter
Chapter 38 explained
Hugh, accompanied by Dennis, is initiated into the Great Protestant Association.
What happens
Hugh, accompanied by Dennis, is initiated into the Great Protestant Association. They visit The Boot tavern, where Hugh is enrolled as a member, and then survey the Houses of Parliament, observing the covert distribution of handbills and the secretive network of conspirators preparing for the riots.
Themes in this chapter
Manipulation and Exploitation
Gashford and Dennis manipulate Hugh's ignorance and violent tendencies for their own ends, using him as a tool for the riots.
Mob Violence and Chaos
The chapter depicts the secretive organization of the mob, with handbills and covert meetings, foreshadowing the impending chaos.
Characters to notice
- Hugh
Enlists in the Protestant Association, showing his eagerness for violence and his illiteracy.
- Mr. Dennis
Acts as Hugh's guide and recruiter, reveling in the prospect of destruction and admiring Hugh's physique.
- Gashford
The secretary who enrolls Hugh, feigning ignorance of the handbill and manipulating the new recruit.
- John Grueby
Briefly appears, ushering Hugh into Gashford's presence before being dismissed.
Key passages
“The hotter the better, said Hugh, I’m prepared for anything.”
Hugh declares his readiness for violence, embracing the heat of conflict.
Hugh's eagerness for action.
“No Popery, brother! cried the hangman. No Property, brother! responded Hugh.”
Dennis and Hugh exchange slogans, revealing their true motives: anti-Catholicism and a desire for plunder.
The chant reveals the underlying greed and chaos of the movement.
“There's a neck for stretching, Muster Gashford!”
Dennis comments on Hugh's strong neck, hinting at his future as a hangman's victim.
Dennis's dark admiration foreshadows Hugh's fate.