Barnaby Rudge · Chapter
Chapter 64 explained
The mob, led by Hugh and Dennis, confronts the jailer Mr.
What happens
The mob, led by Hugh and Dennis, confronts the jailer Mr. Akerman at Newgate Prison, demanding the release of their imprisoned friends. Gabriel Varden, the locksmith, is forced to the front but refuses to pick the prison lock, even under threat. The mob then attacks the prison, setting the door on fire and eventually breaking through, while prisoners inside cry out in terror, especially those condemned to die. The scene is one of chaos and violence as the prison is engulfed in flames.
Themes in this chapter
Mob Violence and Chaos
The chapter vividly depicts the mob's frenzy, the attack on the prison, and the breakdown of order.
Guilt and Retribution
The prisoners' terror, especially those condemned to die, highlights themes of guilt and impending punishment.
Characters to notice
- Hugh
Leads the mob's demand for the release of prisoners and is the first to leap into the burning jail.
- Mr. Dennis
Follows Hugh into the jail, participating in the attack.
- Gabriel Varden
Forced to accompany the mob, but bravely refuses to pick the prison lock, declaring his duty.
- Mr. Akerman
The head jailer who tries to reason with the mob and warns of consequences.
Key passages
“Deliver up our friends, said Hugh, and you may keep the rest.”
Hugh demands that the jailer release their imprisoned companions, offering to let him keep the others.
Hugh's demand encapsulates the mob's goal.
“I am an honest man, Mr. Akerman; a respectable tradesman—Gabriel Varden, the locksmith. You know me?”
Gabriel Varden identifies himself as a respectable tradesman to the jailer, hoping to be recognized as not part of the mob.
Varden asserts his integrity amidst the chaos.
“Pile up the fire! The door sank down again: it settled deeper in the cinders—tottered—yielded—was down!”
The mob intensifies the fire, causing the prison door to weaken and finally collapse.
The dramatic moment of the prison breach.