# Chapter 6 explained — Barnaby Rudge

> Chapter companion for Barnaby Rudge by Charles Dickens.

## What happens

Gabriel Varden and Edward Chester discuss the attack on Edward, with Varden suspecting a connection to Barnaby and his mother. The raven Grip displays uncanny intelligence, and Varden leaves with uneasy suspicions about the household's secrets.

## Themes in this chapter

### Madness and Perception

Barnaby's simple-mindedness and his relationship with Grip blur the line between human and animal intelligence.

### Guilt and Retribution

Varden's suspicions and Mrs. Rudge's hidden distress suggest a guilty secret that may lead to retribution.

## Character check-ins

### Gabriel Varden

The locksmith, troubled by suspicions about Mrs. Rudge and the mysterious events.

### Edward Chester

The wounded gentleman, recounting the attack and noting the stranger's voice.

### Barnaby Rudge

Delighted by Grip's antics, showing his simple nature and bond with the raven.

### Grip

The raven, displaying remarkable intelligence and a mischievous personality.

### Mrs. Rudge

The widow, visibly distressed and anxious, hiding her emotions.

## Key lines

> I have told a lie tonight, for your sake, Mary, and for the sake of bygone times and old acquaintance, when I would scorn to do so for my own.

I lied tonight to protect you, Mary, because of our past friendship, something I would never do for myself.

_Varden reveals his internal conflict and loyalty to Mrs. Rudge._

> He's the master, and I'm the man. Is that the truth, Grip?

Grip is the one in charge, and I follow him. Isn't that right, Grip?

_Barnaby's inverted relationship with the raven highlights his childlike perception._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/barnaby_rudge_se/chapters/chapter-6
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/barnaby_rudge_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/barnaby_rudge_se/chapters