Martin Chuzzlewit · Chapter
XXII explained
Martin becomes a local celebrity in Watertoast after purchasing land in Eden, receiving invitations to lecture and a stream of visitors.
What happens
Martin becomes a local celebrity in Watertoast after purchasing land in Eden, receiving invitations to lecture and a stream of visitors. He reluctantly holds a reception, enduring intense scrutiny from the townspeople, and is introduced to Mrs. Hominy, who will accompany him on his journey.
Themes in this chapter
American vs. British Society
Martin's bewilderment at the intrusive, democratic curiosity of the Watertoast citizens highlights cultural contrasts between British reserve and American openness.
Hypocrisy and Self-Deception
The townspeople's sudden interest in Martin is based on his land purchase, not genuine friendship, revealing self-interested motives masked as hospitality.
Characters to notice
- Martin Chuzzlewit
Becomes the lion of Watertoast after buying land in Eden; reluctantly hosts a reception and meets Mrs. Hominy.
- Mark Tapley
Martin's partner, observes the absurdity of the situation and tries to keep visitors away.
- La Fayette Kettle
Secretary of the Young Men's Watertoast Association, invites Martin to lecture on the Tower of London.
- Captain Kedgick
Landlord of the National Hotel, arranges Martin's reception and announces the event.
- Mrs. Hominy
Wife of Major Hominy, introduced to Martin as a literary figure who will travel with him toward Eden.
Key passages
“As soon as it was generally known in the National Hotel, that the young Englishman, Mr. Chuzzlewit, had purchased a 'lo‑cation' in the Valley of Eden, and intended to betake himself to that earthly Paradise by the next steamboat, he became a popular character.”
Once word spread that Martin had bought land in Eden and planned to go there soon, he suddenly became a celebrity at the hotel.
Highlights the sudden fame based on his speculative land purchase.
“You will have to hold a sort of lě—vēe, sir, while you’re here.”
You'll need to host a reception while you're in town.
Captain Kedgick insists Martin must receive visitors, despite Martin's reluctance.
“If Martin put one boot before the other, the lower gentleman was down upon him; he rubbed a pimple on his nose, and the upper gentleman booked it.”
Every movement Martin made was observed and recorded by the two reporters from the Watertoast Gazette.
Illustrates the intense, almost absurd scrutiny Martin endures.