Barnaby Rudge · Chapter
Chapter 43 explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Haredale maintains a nightly vigil at the widow's house, watching for something unknown. Weeks pass with no change. One evening, he encounters a mob in Westminster, where he confronts Lord George Gordon and Gashford, denouncing their anti-Catholic rhetoric. The crowd turns violent, and Haredale is struck by a stone.
Themes in this chapter
Social Injustice and Class
Haredale, a Catholic gentleman, faces persecution and mob violence despite his status, highlighting the injustice of the penal laws and religious bigotry.
Mob Violence and Chaos
The crowd's reaction to Haredale's confrontation escalates from muttering to stone-throwing, illustrating the volatile and dangerous nature of the mob.
Manipulation and Exploitation
Gashford and Sir John Chester manipulate Lord George Gordon's fervor, using the mob for their own ends while appearing innocent.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Geoffrey Haredale
Keeps a nightly vigil at the widow's house, showing unwavering resolve. Confronts Lord George Gordon and Gashford in Westminster Hall, and is struck by a stone thrown by the mob.
- Gashford
Present with Lord George Gordon, appears restless and cringing. Haredale accuses him of a criminal past and servile treachery.
- Sir John Chester
Observes the confrontation with a sweet demeanor, subtly encouraging the tension and smiling at the crowd's behavior.
- Lord George Gordon
Leads the mob in Westminster, speaking violently against Catholics. Dismisses Haredale's accusations and departs with Gashford.
Key passages
“Next morning brought no satisfaction to the locksmith's thoughts, nor next day, nor the next, nor many others.”
The following days brought no relief to the locksmith's troubled mind.
The narrator describes the lingering unease and lack of resolution.
“The slightest noise without doors, caught his ear; a step upon the pavement seemed to make his heart leap.”
Even the faintest sound outside made him start, and a footstep on the street made his heart race.
Haredale's heightened alertness during his vigil.
“I hope there is but one gentleman in England who, addressing an ignorant and excited throng, would speak of a large body of his fellow-subjects in such injurious language as I heard this moment.”
I trust that no other gentleman in England would address an ignorant mob with such offensive words about a large group of his fellow citizens.
Haredale rebukes Lord George Gordon for his inflammatory speech.