Barnaby Rudge · Chapter
Chapter 52 explained
On Sunday morning, Hugh and Dennis wake in a stable, discussing their plans for the next day's riot.
What happens
On Sunday morning, Hugh and Dennis wake in a stable, discussing their plans for the next day's riot. They plot an expedition against a former friend of Barnaby's, intending to carry off a woman. Barnaby, unaware of their true intentions, stands sentry proudly, having been deceived into believing he guards the place as an honor. The chapter also reflects on the nature of mobs, their sudden formation and dispersal, and describes the rioters' activities on Saturday and Sunday, including their burning of Catholic items and Gashford's dissatisfaction with their progress.
Themes in this chapter
Manipulation and Exploitation
Hugh manipulates Barnaby into guarding the stable by appealing to his pride, while plotting to harm Barnaby's former friends.
Mob Violence and Chaos
The chapter describes the unpredictable and destructive nature of the mob, which assembles and disperses suddenly, and engages in burning and looting.
Innocence and Corruption
Barnaby's innocent pride and trust contrast sharply with the corrupt and violent intentions of Hugh and Dennis.
Characters to notice
- Barnaby Rudge
Stands sentry at the stable door, proud and happy, unaware of the plot against his former friends.
- Hugh
Plans a new expedition with Dennis, intending to harm a former friend of Barnaby and carry off a woman.
- Mr. Dennis
Discusses the plan with Hugh, expressing his dislike of women and his admiration for Hugh's enthusiasm.
- Simon Tappertit
Lies coiled upon a truss of hay, snoring profoundly, having been drunk the previous night.
- Gashford
Walks stealthily among the rioters, expressing dissatisfaction with their progress and urging more destructive action.
Key passages
“A mob is usually a creature of very mysterious existence, particularly in a large city. Where it comes from or whither it goes, few men can tell.”
Mobs are mysterious entities in big cities; their origins and destinations are unknown.
The narrator reflects on the elusive nature of mobs.
“I would have you put some meaning into your work. Fools! Can you make no better bonfires than of rags and scraps? Can you burn nothing whole?”
Gashford urges Hugh to make the destruction more significant, criticizing the burning of only rags and scraps instead of whole buildings.
Gashford expresses his desire for more destructive and meaningful violence.